Milan, 5 September (HS):

Giorgio Armani, the iconic Italian fashion designer and founder of the globally renowned Armani brand, passed away peacefully at the age of 91 at his home in Milan. Armani was celebrated for revolutionizing modern Italian elegance and suit tailoring for both men and women, building an empire that spanned fashion, beauty, fragrance, music, sports, and luxury hotels. His brand annually generated more than £2 billion. The Armani Group announced his death with deep sorrow, describing him as their creator, founder, and tireless driving force who worked passionately until his final days.

A public funeral chamber honoring Giorgio Armani will be open on September 6 and 7, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., at Via Bergognone 59 inside the Armani/Teatro in Milan. This gives admirers worldwide a chance to pay respects. Following the viewing, a private funeral ceremony will be held on an unspecified date, in accordance with Armani's explicit wishes.

Tributes poured in from around the world, highlighting Armani's immense influence on fashion and culture. Hollywood stars such as Julia Roberts, who called him a true friend and legend, and Russell Crowe, who described Armani as someone who made a mark acknowledged globally, expressed their condolences. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni praised him as an icon and symbol of the best of Italy and credited him with inspiring the world with his elegance and creativity. Fashion leaders like Donatella Versace and Paul Smith also paid heartfelt homage.

Armani was known not only for his refined and impeccable tailoring but also for his pioneering stance on model health, being the first major designer to ban underweight models after tragic losses to anorexia. He was also a devoted sports fan, supporting Inter Milan and owning the Olimpia Milano basketball team. His legacy includes prestigious honors like the French Legion of Honour and the Italian Order of Merit for Labour.

Despite his health declining in recent months, Armani remained involved in his brand’s future plans, albeit stepping back from some public appearances such as Milan Fashion Week in June 2025, marking his first missed show in decades. His passing marks the end of an era for Italian fashion, but his timeless style and visionary spirit are expected to inspire generations to come.

The world mourns the loss of Re Giorgio, a giant of fashion, whose legacy will forever shape global elegance and style.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar