fashion’s greatest legends

Eva Mendes bids an emotional farewell to Giorgio Armani


Mendes’ choice of imagery was a striking callback to one of her most memorable red carpet moments


© WireImage
Shirley GomezSenior Writer
SEPTEMBER 5, 2025 1:15 PM EDT

Eva Mendes has always been synonymous with elegance, and this week she reminded fans why as she took to social media to honor one of fashion’s greatest legends, Giorgio Armani. Sharing a carousel of photos of herself in one of his breathtaking gowns, Mendes kept her tribute short but heartfelt: “Grazie Mr. Armani ♥️.”

The post quickly caught the attention of fans, fellow actors, and fashion insiders, becoming a bittersweet moment of gratitude as the fashion world reflects on Armani’s incredible influence.

© WireImage
Eva Mendes at the 66th Venice Film Festival on September 4, 2009, in a Giorgio Armani gown.

A Red Carpet Love Affair

Mendes’ choice of imagery was a striking callback to one of her most memorable red carpet moments. Draped in a sleek, sculpted black gown that showcased Armani’s signature mastery of tailoring and sensual sophistication, she radiated the timeless glamour the designer built his empire on.

 The dress, with its structured pleating, cut-out detail, and floor-sweeping silhouette, perfectly encapsulated what made Armani such a red carpet favorite with clean lines, understated drama, and effortless confidence.

© WireImage
The dress, with its structured pleating, cut-out detail, and floor-sweeping silhouette, perfectly encapsulated what made Armani such a red carpet favorite.

Mendes’ Tribute 

While celebrities regularly thank designers, Mendes’ post resonated because it felt deeply personal. Armani wasn’t just another name in her wardrobe; his artistry shaped her image during the peak of her Hollywood stardom. She often turned to his creations for premieres and film festivals, where his dresses allowed her to embody both strength and softness, qualities Mendes herself has always projected.

Her farewell is also symbolic of how Armani bridged worlds. He dressed power players in Hollywood, business leaders, and royalty, yet still kept his work rooted in the belief that clothes should empower rather than overwhelm. 

© WireImage
The dress had clean lines, understated drama, and effortless confidence.

Giorgio Armani’s Lasting Legacy

Giorgio Armani redefined fashion when he launched his label in 1975, moving away from excessive embellishments and toward minimal, tailored elegance. His work not only reshaped red carpet style but also left an indelible mark on everyday wardrobes, introducing power suits for women and redefining masculine chic for men.

For Hollywood, Armani became a go-to for anyone wanting to embody modern glamour without fuss. From Richard Gere in “American Gigolo” to countless Oscars red carpets, Armani’s name became shorthand for sophistication. Mendes’ tribute is part of a much wider wave of gratitude as stars reflect on how the designer elevated their careers and personal style.

© Cedric Ribeiro
Armani became a go-to for anyone wanting to embody modern glamour without fuss.

The Future Without Armani

As Mendes’ post circulates, fans are left reflecting on what comes next for fashion without its maestro actively at the helm. While Armani’s brand will continue, his departure marks the end of an era. Mendes’s carousel is a recognition that Armani’s artistry shaped not just fashion, but cultural memory itself.

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