ROME (Kashmir English): Fashion designer Giorgio Armani, the epitome of contemporary Italian fashion and sophistication and international “King Giorgio,” passed away at 91 years old, according to his company, which announced on Thursday.
Armani, who epitomized understated elegance and played a central role in making “Made in Italy” a brand of sophistication across the globe, was hailed by peers, politicians, and fans alike as an icon whose impact reached far beyond the runway.
Versace fashion designer Donatella Versace headed tributes, stating, “The world has lost a giant today. He made history and will be remembered forever.”
Moncler chief executive Remo Ruffini said the same as Armani himself in his tribute: “‘Elegance is not about being noticed, it’s about being remembered.’ Thank you, Giorgio.”
Employees and family members of the Armani company expressed their grief, calling him the guiding spirit of the fashion house: “In this company, we have always felt like part of a family.
Today, with deep emotion, we feel the void left by the one who founded and nurtured this family with vision, passion, and dedication. But it is precisely in his spirit that we. commit to protecting what he built and to carrying his company forward in his memory, with respect, responsibility, and love.”
Italian politicians also saluted Armani’s contribution to Italian culture. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni described him as “an icon, a tireless worker, a symbol of the best of Italy.
With his elegance, sobriety, and creativity, he was able to bring lustre to Italian fashion and inspire the entire world. Grazie per tutto.”
Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani called Armani “a timeless talent and ambassador Made in Italy in the world. A fashion visionary, a refined interpreter of the elegance and beauty of our country. It’s an extraordinary success story.”Cultural institutions also weighed in on the tributes. Venice’s iconic opera house, La Fenice, declared Armani’s legacy would live on:
“Giorgio Armani is not a name but a global language of sobriety, elegance, and creative power. An icon who has changed fashion and will continue to influence generations. May the earth be light upon you, maestro.”
Armani, who established his fashion empire in 1975, created a business that combined classic tailoring with international influence to make him one of the most renowned designers of the contemporary age.
