What Giorgio Armani Means to Us: As Told by Glenn Close, Samuel L. Jackson, Dries Van Noten, Lauren Hutton, Spike Lee and Others

This summer, Giorgio Armani extended heartfelt invitations to his closest friends and collaborators, inviting them to celebrate his legendary 50th-anniversary fashion show. The evening unfolded with a significant absence—Mr. Armani himself, who passed away at age 91 earlier this month.

The atmosphere of the evening felt celebratory nonetheless. Renowned figures like Richard Gere, Lauren Hutton, Spike Lee, Samuel L. Jackson, and Cate Blanchett were present, congregating in Milan to honor the remarkable legacy of Giorgio Armani. While the focus was on honoring the brand’s enduring presence, the night fundamentally revolved around the prolific designer whose influence has left an indelible mark on the fashion industry. Vogue Runway seized the opportunity to converse with some guests about their cherished memories of Armani.

Spike Lee: “He was a great artist, visionary, and humanitarian. When he reached out to me in the early part of my career to be part of a show, I didn’t even know he knew me. And you can’t talk about Mr. Armani without talking about Italy.”

Tonya Lewis Lee: “I remember you had a relationship with Armani going back to the early ’90s, around Malcolm X or even before. I remember you were wearing a lot of Armani, and this was the time when there also used to be Armani shows in New York, which is a big miss now that I think about it.”

Spike Lee: “Pat Riley coaching the Lakers in Armani! And American Gigolo. That’s what really made inroads into American culture. You know, he was one of the giants. My wife and I cancelled plans to be here tonight, but there was no way we were not going to be here to pay tribute to him.”

Dries Van Noten: “I saw the first publicities of Armani, I think in the ’70s, when I was just starting to study fashion. And it was kind of a revolution for me. It was something so different… and his vision continued. I think there is no one who has been so consistent in his vision, for the 50 years that we are celebrating now. For me, that is amazing.”

Samuel L. Jackson: “Knowing him was an extreme honor for me. I was able to afford his creations and was welcomed into this world where my suggestions were heard. His pieces were timeless, and they taught me about value in fashion.”

“When I wore his clothes, I felt confident and knew I was making a distinctive choice that transcended trends. The relationship felt personal, underscoring that such a connection was beyond just fashion.”

Lauren Hutton: “For me, he was a living treasure. His legacy endures, from his innovative designs in American Gigolo to how he transformed Milan into a fashion capital. He revolutionized the industry.”

“I introduced Armani to my friends, and before we knew it, everyone was wearing his designs after his debut at the Academy Awards. I still cherish the pieces I bought from him over four decades ago.”

Glenn Close: “I would not have missed tonight. It was just to pay homage to his legacy. Even though I didn’t spend much time with him, I felt this strange connection. When I performed at the National Theatre, he attended, and I felt a special bond.”

“He dressed me during many memorable events. The first piece I bought was a stunning blazer from his boutique in the ’80s, and I still treasure it.”

Paul Smith: “His approach to tailored clothes was revolutionary. He changed the game with softer silhouettes and relaxed styles. He even introduced wearing T-shirts with suits. Tonight’s colors and designs were familiar yet innovative, showcasing his timeless influence.”

Eiza González: “My mother modeled in the ’60s, and to be an Armani woman was always the dream for her. He defined a woman who is assertive, intelligent, and versatile. I remember scanning Vogue and dreaming of being adorned in his creations.”

Her moments with him solidified her admiration; he made her feel acknowledged in an industry that can sometimes overlook individuals.