Italy Bids Farewell to Fashion Icon Giorgio Armani
Milan, Italy – A state of mourning has been declared in both Piacenza and Milan as Italy today honors the life and legacy of Giorgio Armani, the celebrated fashion designer who revolutionized the industry. A funeral ceremony is being held at the San Martino church,marking the end of an era for one of the world’s most influential creative forces. Armani passed away earlier this week, leaving behind a half-century of innovation and a global empire built on understated elegance.
Armani’s death prompts reflection on his profound impact on fashion and popular culture. From redefining silhouettes in the 1980s with relaxed tailoring to championing a minimalist aesthetic, Armani’s designs transcended trends, becoming synonymous with power dressing and timeless style. His influence extended beyond clothing, encompassing hotels, restaurants, and home furnishings, solidifying his status as a lifestyle brand. The fashion world, and Italy in particular, mourns the loss of a visionary who not only dressed generations but also reshaped the landscape of the industry.
Donatella Versace, reflecting on Armani’s legacy, told CNN he “changed history with fashion,” and paid her respects over the weekend by visiting his casket in Milan.
Despite a recent health scare, Armani remained actively engaged in his work until his passing.He was notably absent from his runway show at Milan’s Men’s Fashion Week in June 2025 – a first in his career - with the company citing his recovery at home.Even in his final months, he was preparing for a retrospective exhibition and a runway show to commemorate 50 years in business, both of which are still planned to proceed as scheduled.CNN’s Barbie Latza Nadeau, Sharon Braithwaite and Marianna Cerini contributed to this report.
