Fashion Icon Giorgio Armani’s Unlikely Role in Making ‘American Gigolo’ a Timeless Classic

I’m Avery Sinclair, a no-nonsense journalist with a healthy dose of skepticism, but even I have to admit that the story of Giorgio Armani’s involvement in ‘American Gigolo’ is a fascinating one. The legendary fashion designer, who passed away at 91, had a profound impact on the 1980 film, and it’s not hard to see why director Paul Schrader is singing his praises.

Giorgio Armani’s death has sent shockwaves through the fashion and film industries, with many of his fans and collaborators mourning the loss of a true original. For Paul Schrader, the writer and director of ‘American Gigolo,’ Armani was more than just a fashion designer – he was a key player in making his film a classic. According to Schrader, Armani’s involvement in the film was a game-changer, helping to push the brand into the US market and cementing its status as a fashion powerhouse.

The story begins with John Travolta, who was originally set to star in ‘American Gigolo.’ Travolta’s manager suggested Armani for the costuming, as the studio wanted to distance the film from the flashy looks of ‘Saturday Night Fever’ and ‘Grease.’ Schrader and Travolta met Armani in Milan, Italy, and he agreed to do the film. However, when Travolta dropped out for personal reasons, the entire wardrobe had to be redone when Richard Gere was recast as the lead.

Gere himself has fond memories of working with Armani, describing him as “a supremely talented pussycat” with an exacting nature that could be intimidating to some. Despite this, Gere appreciated Armani’s uncompromising approach to his craft, which he believed was evident in every aspect of his work.

Schrader had a clear vision for ‘American Gigolo’ – he wanted to make Los Angeles “look and feel classy,” and he believed Armani was the perfect person to help him achieve that goal. With Armani on board, the film went on to become a smash hit at the box office and with critics, and the designer used that success to launch his brand into the US market.

Armani’s involvement in ‘American Gigolo’ marked the beginning of a long and successful partnership between the designer and Hollywood. He went on to costume several other iconic films, including ‘The Untouchables’ and ‘Goodfellas.’ For Schrader, Armani’s contribution to the film was instrumental in making it a timeless classic, and it’s clear that he has a deep respect for the designer’s talent and dedication.

As we look back on Armani’s remarkable career, it’s clear that his impact on the fashion and film industries will be felt for years to come. And for Paul Schrader, Armani will always be remembered as a key player in making ‘American Gigolo’ a film that continues to captivate audiences to this day.

In the end, it’s not hard to see why Armani’s legacy will endure – he was a true original, a visionary with a keen eye for detail and a passion for his craft. And as we say goodbye to this fashion icon, we can’t help but wonder what other secrets he might have left behind.

And that’s today’s dose of reality. You’re welcome.

Sources: Celebrity Storm and TMZ
Attribution: Creative Commons Licensed