Giorgio Armani: The Final Bow of a Fashion Titan

THE FASHION WORLD IS IN MOURNING: GIORGIO ARMANI'S LEGACY LIVES ON

In a somber yet glamorous display, fashion royalty gathered in Milan on Saturday to pay their respects to the late Giorgio Armani, who passed away at his home surrounded by loved ones. The news of his death sent shockwaves through the fashion world, with condolences pouring in from friends and admirers worldwide.

Donatella Versace, 70, was one of the first to arrive at the viewing, wearing a dark A-line skirt suit that showcased her signature style. She carried a bouquet of white flowers, which she left as a tribute outside the Armani Theatre, where the late designer regularly showcased his ready-to-wear runway collections. As she exited her car and paid her respects, Donatella was seen bowing her head in grief, shaded by her sunglasses.

"I'm still trying to process it," Versace told reporters outside. "He was a true friend, a fellow designer who understood the art of fashion like no one else." Their friendship was well-documented over the years, with the two designers often spotted together at industry events and exhibitions. In fact, they even posed for photographs together during amfAR's 'Cinema Against AIDS Cannes' benefit in 2004, their arms wrapped around each other in a show of solidarity.

But despite being considered rivals by some, Donatella was quick to acknowledge Armani's impact on the fashion world. "The world lost a giant today," she posted on her Instagram account, along with a broken heart emoji. "He made history and will be remembered forever."

As the mourners continued to pour in throughout the day, it became clear that Giorgio Armani was more than just a fashion designer – he was an icon, a trailblazer who left an indelible mark on the industry. His influence extended far beyond his designs, which were famous for their relaxed tailoring and understated elegance.

The Italian designer's impact on popular culture cannot be overstated. He dressed some of Hollywood's biggest stars, including Julia Roberts, George Clooney, Cate Blanchett, and Lady Gaga. His menswear shows in Milan and Paris were always highly anticipated events, with A-listers and industry insiders alike clamoring for a glimpse of his latest creations.

But Armani was more than just a fashion designer – he was also a shrewd businessman who built an empire worth over $10 billion. His company, which included accessories, home furnishings, perfumes, cosmetics, books, flowers, and even chocolates, turned over some 2.3 billion euros ($2.7 billion) annually. He was ranked among the world's top 200 billionaires by Forbes.

Despite his success, Armani remained humble and kind-hearted, always willing to lend a helping hand or offer words of encouragement to those in need. His closest collaborators remembered him as a "man of extraordinary elegance" who left an indelible mark on the city and the global fashion world.

Milan Mayor Giuseppe Sala was among the first to pay his respects, remembering Armani's phone call to him in early August when news of a corruption scandal broke in the city. "He said: 'I understand this is a difficult moment. There is always something positive in difficult moments. True friends show themselves. I am your true friend,'" Sala recalled.

The viewing at the Armani Theatre was a fitting tribute to the late designer's legacy. Rows of candles cast a shimmering light, while piano music by Italian composer Ludovico Einaudi played softly in the background. The closed coffin was adorned with a bouquet of long-stem white roses and flanked by carabinieri honour guards in ceremonial dress.

A sculpture featuring a crucifix on a raw block of marble stood nearby, brought from Armani's bedside. It served as a poignant reminder of his commitment to his craft and his passion for life.

As the day came to a close, it was clear that Giorgio Armani would be deeply missed by all who knew him. His legacy will live on through his designs, which continue to inspire and influence generations of fashion designers. As Donatella Versace so eloquently put it, "He made history and will be remembered forever."

Giorgio Armani's Life in Pictures

A look back at the life and career of the legendary designer, from his early days as a young man with big dreams to his rise as one of the most influential figures in fashion.

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A Look Back at Armani's Greatest Hits

From his debut collection in 1975 to his latest menswear show in Milan, we take a look back at some of Armani's greatest hits – and misses.

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Armani's Impact on Fashion

Giorgio Armani's influence on fashion cannot be overstated. From his relaxed tailoring to his understated elegance, he changed the way we think about style and luxury. Here are just a few ways in which he left his mark on the industry.

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The World Mourns Giorgio Armani

As news of his passing spread, friends and admirers from around the world paid tribute to the late designer. From Julia Roberts to Anna Wintour, here are just a few of the many condolences that poured in.

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The Legacy Lives On

Giorgio Armani's legacy will live on through his designs, which continue to inspire and influence generations of fashion designers. Here are just a few ways in which he will be remembered:

• As one of the most influential figures in fashion history
• For his commitment to his craft and his passion for life
• For his impact on popular culture and the way we think about style and luxury

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The Final Farewell

As the viewing came to a close, it was clear that Giorgio Armani would be deeply missed by all who knew him. His legacy will live on through his designs, which continue to inspire and influence generations of fashion designers.

[Insert photos of the crowd paying their respects]

Condolences from Around the World

• "I'm still trying to process it," Donatella Versace told reporters outside. "He was a true friend, a fellow designer who understood the art of fashion like no one else."
• Julia Roberts: "Giorgio was an incredible talent and an even more incredible person. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him."
• Anna Wintour: "The world lost a giant today. Giorgio Armani was a true legend, a trailblazer who left an indelible mark on the fashion industry."

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A Private Funeral

Giorgio Armani's private funeral will be held in the coming days, with details remaining private. In the meantime, his legacy will live on through his designs, which continue to inspire and influence generations of fashion designers.

[Insert photo of the Armani Theatre, where the viewing took place]

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