The fashion world experienced a profound loss on September 4, when Giorgio Armani, the celebrated designer and founder of his eponymous brand, died at the age of 91. Since the announcement, prominent figures such as Julia Roberts, Victoria Beckham, Donatella Versace, Russell Crowe, and others have shared heartfelt tributes to honor Armani’s enduring influence. His remarkable career transformed the fashion landscape, inspiring generations of designers and wearers alike.
Julia Roberts, in particular, is remembered for her iconic Armani looks, including a standout oversized gray suit she wore to the 1990 Golden Globes, a piece that remains emblematic of Armani’s style and innovation. The actress’s connection to Armani stretched beyond fashion, reflecting a deep personal friendship that resonated throughout the industry.
Victoria Beckham Reflects on Armani’s Enduring Impact
Victoria Beckham, a former Spice Girls member and a successful fashion designer, expressed admiration for Armani’s lasting contribution to the fashion world. She described him as “a true legend” whose visionary spirit will be felt forever. Beckham also spoke about their personal friendship, highlighting her respect and affection for him.
“The fashion world has lost a true legend in Giorgio Armani—a visionary designer whose legacy will live on forever,”
Victoria wrote on her Instagram Stories on September 4.
“I feel honored to have called him a friend.”
—Victoria Beckham, Fashion Designer and Former Singer
Donatella Versace Offers Condolences Despite Rivalry
Despite a well-known professional rivalry between Armani and the Versace family, Donatella Versace took to Instagram to express her sorrow at the loss. She recognized Armani’s historic role in shaping fashion, emphasizing the magnitude of his contributions.
“The world lost a giant today. He made history and will be remembered forever.”
—Donatella Versace, Fashion Designer
Russell Crowe Recalls the Start of His Armani Affiliation
Actor Russell Crowe shared a personal story about his initial experience wearing an Armani suit at the 1997 Cannes Film Festival for the premiere of LA Confidential. Crowe credited producer Arnon Milchan with directing him to purchase the suit, which marked the beginning of a lasting relationship with the brand.
“Producer Arnon Milchan sent me to the Armani store with a credit card to get a suit for the premiere,”
Crowe recalled on X.
“That began a love affair with Armani suits that continues to this day.”
—Russell Crowe, Actor
He also emphasized Armani’s significance in his life beyond the premiere, noting that many important occasions, including his wedding and awards ceremonies, involved Armani ensembles.
“Mr. Armani has made a deep contribution to fashion, to design, to popular culture,”
Crowe stated.
“His energy, vision and finesse has made a mark acknowledged around the globe.”
Crowe mentioned he was scheduled to meet Armani again in Milan later that month, reflecting on the designer’s extraordinary journey from his humble beginnings to international acclaim.
“What a life he had, from his beginnings to his glory. You will always live in my heart.”
—Russell Crowe, Actor
Julia Roberts Celebrates Her Memorable Armani Styles
Julia Roberts’ legacy includes several iconic Armani outfits, notably an oversized gray suit worn at the 1990 Golden Globes. The look has remained influential enough to inspire others, like Ayo Edebiri, who paid tribute to the ensemble at the 2025 awards show. Roberts shared her fondness for the outfit during a Vogue interview in January 2024.
“This was one of my all-time favorite outfits,”
she revealed.
“I could not have known that it was going to become this statement outfit. I just thought I looked fabulous, and I still have that suit.”
—Julia Roberts, Actress
Following Armani’s passing, Roberts highlighted their close bond on Instagram alongside a photo of them together, calling him “A true friend. A Legend.”
Other Celebrities Pay Tribute to Armani’s Legacy
Several other well-known personalities have honored Giorgio Armani, reflecting the widespread impact he had on fashion, culture, and personal lives. Laura Pausini, Francesca Fagnani, Charles Leclerc, Anna Dello Russo, Simona Ventura, Ashton Kutcher, and Jessel Taank are among those who shared their respects publicly.
Francesca Fagnani, an Italian television host, expressed gratitude for Armani’s empowering influence on women.
“Thank you for helping make women stronger and more aware,”
she wrote on Instagram.
“Every meeting, every dress worn, was a tremendous privilege. We will miss you.”
—Francesca Fagnani, Television Host
Formula One driver Charles Leclerc noted his appreciation for having met and worked with Armani.
“A great honor to have had the chance to meet and work with such an amazing person,”
he said on Instagram Stories. You will be missed, Giorgio. —Charles Leclerc, Racing Driver
Anna Dello Russo, a respected Italian fashion editor, offered a heartfelt farewell.
“I’ll always carry you in my heart.”
—Anna Dello Russo, Fashion Editor
Simona Ventura, a popular Rai 2 TV host, paid tribute to Armani’s significance for Italy on Instagram in Italian.
“George you are and will always be our KING,”
she wrote.
“Thank you for making us proud to be ITALIAN!! I love you.”
—Simona Ventura, TV Host
Giorgio Armani Brand Honors Founder’s Spirit
The Armani fashion house confirmed the passing with a moving statement that captured the essence of Armani’s life and work. Known respectfully as Il Signor Armani by employees and collaborators, he passed peacefully, surrounded by his family. The company underlined Armani’s hallmark independence in both thought and action, a spirit that continues to define the brand.
“Il Signor Armani, as he was always respectfully and admiringly called by employees and collaborators, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loved ones,”
the brand shared on Instagram.
“Giorgio Armani always made independence—of thought and action—his hallmark. The company is, now and always, a reflection of this spirit.”
—Armani Fashion House
Giorgio Armani’s legacy is marked not only by his exceptional influence on fashion but by the personal connections he forged with some of the world’s most well-known artists and public figures. As tributes continue to pour in, the designer’s work and vision remain a powerful force in style and culture worldwide.
