A City in Mourning
On Friday, the usually lively Via Bergognone in Milan fell silent as crowds gathered outside the Giorgio Armani headquarters. Instead of fashion shows and flashing cameras, the mood was somber. People came together to honor the life and legacy of Giorgio Armani, the visionary designer who passed away on Thursday at the age of 91.
The headquarters, home to the Teatro Armani since 2000, will serve as a funeral chamber from Saturday to Sunday. Visitors will be able to view Armani’s casket before a private funeral service on Monday. Long queues are expected as fans, admirers, and members of the fashion industry line up to pay their final respects.
Remembering the Maestro of Italian Fashion
Known worldwide as the “king” or “maestro” of Italian fashion, Giorgio Armani’s influence stretched far beyond the runway. His journey from modest beginnings in wartime Piacenza to building a global empire is one of fashion’s most inspiring stories.
Over decades, Armani redefined elegance through his designs, blending simplicity with sophistication. His empire extended into hotels, restaurants, beauty products, and even chocolates. Today, it is valued at more than £9 billion — a testament to his creative genius and business vision.
Tributes From Admirers and Industry Voices
Across Milan and beyond, tributes continue to pour in. Flowers now decorate the railings outside the Armani Silos exhibition space, creating a quiet symbol of respect.
Beatrice Manca, a freelance fashion journalist in Milan, described Armani as a source of national pride: “He was more than a designer; he represented Italy on the world stage.”
Fashion consultant Paola Locati also expressed her admiration: “His creations were the aspiration for many. Two of my friends even married in Armani suits. He was loved by the public, and we will miss him deeply.”
Milan Declares a Day of Mourning
The mayor of Milan, Giuseppe Sala, announced that Monday will be a day of national mourning. In his statement, he praised Armani as “one of the greatest representatives of Italian and Milanese fashion in the world.” He also highlighted Armani’s active role in supporting the city and its cultural life.
To honor him, Armani stores in Milan have temporarily closed. London stores will also shut their doors for part of the day on Monday. Meanwhile, live streams outside the headquarters allow people worldwide to take part in remembering the designer.
A Global Loss That Touches Everyone
What makes Armani’s passing so profound is that it resonates even with those outside the fashion world. His name and designs became symbols of elegance and aspiration. As journalist Beatrice Manca noted, “His death has touched even those who did not follow fashion. Everyone dreamed of being part of the world Giorgio Armani created.”
Although illness kept him away from his last three shows, Armani had planned to attend the 50th anniversary show of his brand later this month. He was also scheduled to be present at the opening of a retrospective at the Pinacoteca di Brera, featuring over 150 archival designs. Both events are expected to go ahead, now carrying even greater meaning as celebrations of his legacy.
A Legacy That Lives On
Giorgio Armani’s passing leaves an irreplaceable void in the world of fashion and culture. Yet, his influence will endure for generations. Through his timeless designs, global business empire, and commitment to Milan, Armani built a legacy that goes far beyond clothing.
As mourners continue to gather outside his Milan headquarters, one thing is clear: Giorgio Armani may be gone, but his vision, elegance, and spirit will remain alive in the hearts of millions.
