The news of Giorgio Armani’s passing on Thursday sent shockwaves throughout the fashion industry. Designers, celebrities, and business leaders from around the globe reacted with profound sadness, praising Armani's unparalleled legacy, visionary approach, and pioneering style. Carlo Capasa, president of the Camera Nazionale della Moda Italiana, expressed the sentiment of many by stating, “Giorgio Armani shaped contemporary fashion by redefining its boundaries and creating a lifestyle concept that is recognized and admired worldwide, establishing Made in Italy as a true symbol of excellence.”
Capasa further elaborated on Armani's significant contributions: “As one of the founders of Milan Fashion Week, he generously and visionarily contributed to the growth of the fashion system and its values, always demonstrating deep awareness and engagement with the major events of our time and pressing social issues. He supported young designers, cultural initiatives in Milan and around the world, and fostered a fusion of different artistic expressions. His legacy is a profound source of inspiration for all of us.”
The LVMH Group released a statement expressing their sorrow, calling Armani “the last of the post-war golden generation of fashion designers who shaped, year after year, the paragons of highest elegance.” They highlighted his lasting influence, stating, “His legacy will live in the hearts and imaginations of current and future designers for a long time.”
Many young designers regarded Armani as a mentor and an icon. His fall 2024 Privé couture show attracted notable attendees, including Ami Paris designer Alexandre Mattiussi and Simon Porte Jacquemus, both of whom have openly admired Armani's work. Jacquemus, an avid collector of vintage Armani, showcases the impact the designer had on the next generation of talent.
Others in the fashion industry echoed these sentiments. Bernard Arnault, chairman and CEO of LVMH, shared, “I feel profoundly saddened by the passing of Giorgio Armani. He created a unique style, combining light and shadow, that he developed into a large and successful entrepreneurial journey, extending Italian elegance to a global scale.”
François-Henri Pinault, chairman and CEO of Kering, praised Armani as a remarkable visionary, saying, “He redefined elegance with a rigor and independence that have marked our time. His influence extends far beyond fashion and will continue to inspire entire generations.”
Pietro Beccari, chairman and CEO of Louis Vuitton, remarked, “With the passing of Mr. Armani, the world mourns a true visionary. His impact on elegance and class changed the course of luxury forever.”
John Elkann, chairman of Ferrari and Stellantis, remembered Armani as a man of culture and sophistication, stating, “For half a century, his creations have represented the highest expression of Italian taste, a symbol of elegance and timeless beauty.”
Delphine Arnault, chairman and CEO of Christian Dior Couture, expressed her admiration, saying, “He was at the same time an exceptional designer and an extraordinary entrepreneur. The fashion world has lost one of the greats.”
Francesco Milleri, chairman and CEO of EssilorLuxottica, honored Armani's legacy as a master of style, stating, “He shared with Leonardo Del Vecchio an extraordinary passion for excellence, quality, and innovation. My heartfelt thoughts are with his family and loved ones during this time.”
Giorgio Armani’s influence extended far beyond the realm of fashion; he was a guiding light for many aspiring designers. Renowned figures like Donatella Versace and Ralph Lauren reflected on his profound impact, with Versace stating, “Giorgio Armani changed history with fashion,” and Lauren emphasizing Armani’s humility and love for his craft.
Even emerging designers such as Simon Porte Jacquemus and Alexandre Mattiussi shared their grief, highlighting that they considered Armani not just a designer but a mentor whose work inspired them profoundly.
Giorgio Armani's passing marks the end of an era in fashion, yet his legacy of elegance, innovation, and dedication to quality will continue to inspire generations. The industry has lost not just a designer, but a visionary whose influence will echo throughout the world of fashion for years to come. As many reflect on his contributions, it is clear that Giorgio Armani will forever remain a symbol of Italian elegance and a guiding light for the future of fashion.
