Giorgio Armani: fashion mourns, Paris salutes an icon

Fashion designer Giorgio Armani has died aged 91. Italy mourns a giant, and Paris, fashion capital of the world, loses a respected rival. A discreet funeral is planned for Monday in the village of Rivalta.

The fashion world is in mourning. Giorgio Armani, a leading figure in Italian style, has died at the age of 91. As Italy prepares for a private funeral this Monday, September 8, in Rivalta, sadness is spreading beyond its borders. In Paris, the news resonated with particular intensity. If Armani epitomized Milan, his influence extended far beyond, to the catwalks of Paris Fashion Week, where his creations were often discussed, admired and even feared.

A discreet last tribute for a reserved man

The designer will be buried in the small church of San Martino, in the medieval village of Rivalta, not far from Milan. He will join his mother’s grave. TheAssociation of Castles of the Duchy of Parma has confirmed that the ceremony will take place at 3.30pm, in strict family privacy. Access to the area will be restricted to ensure confidentiality.

The Armani group announced the closure of its boutiques on Monday afternoon in mourning. In Milan, Mayor Giuseppe Sala declared an official day of mourning, demonstrating the attachment of an entire city to the man who represented it throughout the world.

A chapelle ardente open to the public

Since Sunday, thousands of admirers have flocked to the Armani Teatro in Milan’s old industrial district for a final tribute. The coffin lies there, surrounded by rose wreaths and lanterns, in a sober setting faithful to the designer’s aesthetic.

Celebrities such as Matteo Renzi, Ludovico Einaudi and tennis stars Fabio Fognini and Flavia Pennetta came to pay tribute to the designer’s memory.

A loss felt as far away as Paris

Armani may have built his empire in Italy, but he has always been an essential reference in the Parisian world of luxury. In Paris, industry professionals recognize him as an elegant rival, a formidable businessman, but above all a creator whose influence on sleek design and fluid silhouettes has left a lasting imprint, even on French houses.

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