UPDATE: Thousands of mourners gathered in Milan today to pay their final respects to legendary fashion designer Giorgio Armani, who passed away on July 13, 2023, at the age of 91. The public viewing of Armani’s closed casket began this morning at Teatro Armani, drawing crowds eager to honor the man credited with revolutionizing fashion.
Iconic designer Donatella Versace was among the first to arrive, paying homage alongside hundreds of fans and industry leaders. The casket, adorned with white roses, was placed in a dimly lit room, illuminated by flickering paper candles, with a large image of Armani displayed on a screen. Many mourners, including Armani’s partner Pantaleo Dell’Orco, expressed deep emotional tributes. “It’s so emotional,” said Silvia Albonetti, a saleswoman at Emporio Armani. “He was an incredible man… sometimes curt, but human.”
The viewing will continue throughout the day, with hundreds already queued to pay their respects. Reports from Italy’s Corriere della Sera indicate that Armani had been struggling with health issues, including liver failure, prior to his death. His remarkable career spanned decades, establishing him as one of the richest men globally, with an estimated net worth of €11.8 billion.
Armani’s impact on the fashion world cannot be overstated; he is often credited with creating red-carpet fashion, dressing countless celebrities, and redefining modern elegance. As the city of Milan declared the day of his funeral a day of mourning, local residents reflected on his profound influence. “He represented our city,” stated Fanny Bucci, a visitor at the viewing. “It’s the end of an era.”
In a poignant moment, young fashion student Pietro Angeleri shared, “Every fashion show was pure magic. No one has managed to make women stand out like he did. He will be missed.”
Armani’s family has committed to preserving his legacy, with a statement vowing to protect the empire he built. In his last interview, he mentioned Dell’Orco and his nieces, Roberta and Silvana Armani, as key figures in continuing his vision.
The public viewing at Teatro Armani, a transformed chocolate factory, is expected to draw thousands over the weekend. The private funeral is scheduled for Monday, July 17, 2023, marking a significant moment in fashion history as the industry comes together to remember an icon whose influence will resonate for generations.
As mourners continue to arrive, the atmosphere is filled with a mix of sorrow and celebration of a life dedicated to the art of fashion. The world watches closely as Milan bids farewell to a true visionary.
