The film American Gigolo is often credited with launching Giorgio Armani’s fashion label into mainstream recognition, largely due to the wardrobe choices featured. Originally, John Travolta was set to star in the movie, but when he stepped away, Richard Gere took the lead role, which accelerated the designer’s rise. Armani himself noted that Travolta was
“the most famous actor in the world after ‘Saturday Night Fever,’”
but the change was essential for the fashion to resonate on screen.
Reflecting on this casting shift, Armani stated,
“Luckily, Schrader changed the lead, because Travolta absolutely wasn’t the character who could wear my clothes with flair and elegance.”
This unforeseen change allowed Gere’s portrayal to embody the sleek, sophisticated style that helped define the Armani brand.
Richard Gere Remembers Giorgio Armani as a Unique and Passionate Artist
Following the passing of Giorgio Armani, Richard Gere expressed deep admiration for the designer, who provided him with his first proper suit during the filming of American Gigolo. Gere described Armani as
“certainly an original. An artist. A visionary of sorts,”
highlighting his rare blend of creativity and craftsmanship.
On Armani’s personality, Gere remarked,
“With the eyes and hand of a craftsman, and the soul of a painter. His work had his essence all over it. And he cared right up to the end. Uncompromising. I know there were those who he terrified because of his exacting nature. To me he was a supremely talented pussycat.”
Armani’s final interview emerged just a week before his death, prompting many in the industry to share their memories of working with him, including Gere.
The Impact of Armani’s Designs on Male Fashion for Richard Gere
Before starring in American Gigolo, Gere admitted he
“didn’t even own a proper suit,”
crediting Armani with introducing him — and by extension, many others — to the elegance of a classic suit. He told the Financial Times,
“He probably taught the whole male world the joy of wearing a beautiful suit.”
Gere’s affection for Armani’s designs extended beyond their formal wear. He expressed admiration for the subtle color palette of the suits, saying to Vanity Fair,
“It was like looking at an old carpet where the natural colors blend and even bleed, as opposed to some of these new carpets made of plastic fibers where the colors are monolithic.”
When asked about other designers, Gere remarked simply,
“I don’t know any other designer,”
but also mentioned that when he is not wearing Armani, he is likely wearing Levi’s.
The Lasting Influence of Giorgio Armani’s Vision
Richard Gere’s reflections emphasize how Giorgio Armani’s artistry transcended fashion, leaving a profound mark on style and personal expression for generations of men. The relationship forged through film and fashion not only advanced Armani’s legacy but also reshaped modern menswear.
As the world continues to celebrate Armani’s contributions, Gere’s tribute serves as a reminder of the enduring fusion of craftsmanship, vision, and soul behind the brand’s timeless appeal.
