Italian President Sergio Mattarella bestowed the Knight Grand Cross on the 87-year-old designer at a private ceremony in the Quirinal Palace.
As Italy’s highest civilian honour, the accolade reflects both Armani’s 60-year career in the fashion industry and his status as one of the country’s iconic leaders across the fashion, lifestyle and luxury sectors.
“This honour holds a particular meaning for me,” Armani said after the ceremony.
“It came from our president, who is not only the head of state, but also a man whose values, open-mindedness and kindness, are unquestionably high.
“I’m proud to represent Italy and I’m honoured to receive this prestigious title, which the president is giving me on behalf of the whole country. ”
Armani founded his eponymous fashion line in 1975 with professional and life partner Sergio Galeotti.
Over the years, the brand has expanded into the industries of beauty, home, music, sports and luxury hotels.
As recently as last year, Armani donated $2.2 million to local hospitals in the fight against coronavirus, while his Giorgio Armani Foundation established in 2016 has continued the designer’s long history of supporting social causes including the fight against HIV/AIDS and child poverty.
Italy’s highest civilian honour is part of the country’s Order of Merit, which is bestowed to those who have excelled in the fields of literature, the arts, economy, public service and social, philanthropic and humanitarian activities.
Previous recipients of the Knight Grand Cross from the world of fashion count just two: Valentino Garavani and Miuccia Prada, in 1986 and 2015 respectively.
