It feels impossible to put into words the impact Giorgio Armani has had on Hollywood since launching his namesake fashion house in 1975. Fifty years since laying the groundwork for his fashion empire, the revolutionary designer passed away at age 91, leaving behind an untouchable legacy as a pioneer in fashion and a red-carpet savant.
“With infinite sorrow, the Armani Group announces the passing of its creator, founder, and tireless driving force: Giorgio Armani,” an Armani representative said in a statement on September 4. “Il Signor Armani, as he was always respectfully and admiringly called by employees and collaborators, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loved ones. Indefatigable to the end, he worked until his final days, dedicating himself to the company, the collections, and the many ongoing and future projects.”
The statement continued, “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, the employees and the family members who have always worked alongside Mr. Armani, commit to protecting what he built and to carrying his company forward in his memory, with respect, responsibility, and love.”
Armani redefined the power suit as a menswear and womenswear designer in the 1970s after starting his career as a window dresser at an Italian department store in Milan. In Hollywood he made a name for himself by dressing the likes of Diane Keaton and Richard Gere years before 20-year-old Julia Roberts arrived at the 1990 Golden Globes in her most iconic look to date—an Armani men’s suit she picked up off the rack.
Julia Roberts in 1990.
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But Giorgio Armani’s legacy cannot be boiled down to a singular silhouette or red-carpet moment. The designer knew his way around an impeccable evening gown—often adding pockets—making him one of Hollywood’s most desired red-carpet collaborators right up until his passing.
