Italian fashion designer Giorgio Armani, one of the most influential figures in modern fashion, has died at the age of 91. The news was confirmed by his company on Thursday, stating he passed away “surrounded by his loved ones.”

In its official statement, the Armani Group said:

“With infinite sorrow, the Armani Group announces the passing of its creator, founder, and tireless driving force: Giorgio Armani.”

The announcement was first reported by France 24, which noted that Armani’s fashion house would set up a funeral chamber in Milan on Saturday and Sunday, followed by a private funeral at a later date.

Photo: Giorgio Armani- Instagram

Born in Piacenza in 1934, Armani started out in medicine before moving into window dressing and eventually fashion design. In 1975, he co-founded his namesake label, selling his Volkswagen Beetle to raise the funds. What began as a small venture grew into one of the most powerful fashion empires in the world, spanning couture, ready-to-wear, perfumes, hotels, and interior design.

He was known for pioneering unstructured tailoring, a style that stripped away stiffness and redefined power dressing in the 1980s. Armani’s designs became synonymous with understated luxury, worn by Hollywood stars, business leaders, and royalty alike. His connection to Dubai was especially significant — the Armani Hotel in Burj Khalifa remains one of the city’s landmarks, blending his design vision with the Middle East’s modern luxury lifestyle.

By 2025, the Armani Group was generating an annual turnover of more than €2.3 billion ($2.7 billion), making it one of Italy’s most successful fashion houses. Armani’s health had been declining in recent months. In June, he missed Milan Men’s Fashion Week—marking the first time in his decades-long career that he was absent from a catwalk show.

Photo: Giorgio Armani- Instagram

In Italy, Armani was affectionately known as Re Giorgio (King Giorgio). Unlike many designers who later stepped back from the spotlight, Armani remained at the heart of his company until the end. His eye for detail and insistence on perfection set him apart shaping a brand that balanced creativity with strong business acumen.

The company confirmed that a funeral chamber will be open to the public in Milan over the weekend, allowing admirers and industry figures to pay their respects. A private family funeral will follow at a later date. Giorgio Armani leaves behind not just a global fashion empire, but also a legacy that reshaped how the world understands elegance, discipline, and Italian style.

The MTV Video Music Awards have never been just another awards show. For more than 40 years, they’ve delivered the kind of moments people still talk about. In 2025, the VMAs return with the same spirit, but a fresh energy for a new era. This year’s show will be broadcast live from New York’s UBS Arena on September 7, LL COOL J will host the 2025 MTV VMAs. And while the red carpet will provide plenty of fashion headlines, the focus is on what’s happening inside

Honoring Icons

The VMAs this year will feature three big tributes. Mariah Carey will receive the Video Vanguard Award, celebrating her lasting influence on music videos. Busta Rhymes will be given the Rock the Bells Visionary Award, honoring his impact on hip-hop culture and visuals. While Ricky Martin is set to receive the inaugural Latin Icon Award, Showing how far Latin music has come worldwide. These honors show how the VMAs are widening their lens, and celebrating influence across genres and generations. This year’s performers capture what the VMAs are all about, bringing together both music icons and rising stars.

Lady Gaga, the night’s top nominee with 12 nominations, will return for her first VMA performance since 2020. Her collaboration with Bruno Mars, “Die With a Smile”, has dominated the year, and fans are expecting her to deliver big on Sunday Night. Fans are equally looking forward to a performance from Mariah Carey. Tate McRae, Sabrina Carpenter, Doja Cat, Post Malone, J Balvin with DJ Snake, Conan Gray, Alex Warren, and Jelly Roll are also set to perform making it one of the most diverse lineups MTV has staged in years.

For the first time, the Extended Play Stage will be part of the main show, featuring Bailey Zimmerman with The Kid LAROI, Lola Young, and Megan Morone. The pre-show keeps the energy high with KATSEYE performing their viral singles “Gnarly” and “Gabriela.”

The music is covered by the performers, but it’s the presenters who will bring the fun commentary and surprises. Stars like Ciara, Ice Spice, Paris Hilton, Drew Barrymore, Latto, and the Simpson sisters (Jessica and Ashlee) are all set to appear. Even fictional characters have their place this year — the voices behind HUNTR/X, the fictional K-pop girl group from KPop Demon Hunters, will make a special appearance.

The Stakes of 2025

With Lady Gaga leading with 12 nominations, Bruno Mars close behind with 11, and Kendrick Lamar with 10, competition at this year’s VMAs is tough. Sabrina Carpenter, ROSÉ, Ariana Grande, The Weeknd, Billie Eilish, and Tate McRae will all be hoping to end the night with a win.

Conclusion

But aside from the competition, MTV is calling this year’s show “Music’s Most Iconic Night.” but it makes sense. Even with how much music has changed, the VMAs are still one of the few shows where fans, artists, and pop culture all come together live.

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Global sports brand PUMA has signed a three-year partnership with Eastern Flames FC, Saudi Arabia’s women’s football club. The deal covers official team kits, training wear, and merchandise, making Eastern Flames the first women’s side in the region to secure a major global sportswear sponsor.

Founded in 2006 in Dammam, Eastern Flames FC is widely regarded as the birthplace of women’s football in Saudi Arabia. What started as a small initiative has grown into a professional club competing in the Saudi Women’s Premier League. Adding to its significance, the team is owned and run entirely by women.

As part of the deal, PUMA will design the club’s home, away, and third kits. The new gear reflects the club’s identity and highlights its role as a pioneer for women in sports. According to a club representative, the partnership allows PUMA to promote football culture across the Middle East while supporting female athletes with the same energy and respect given to their male counterparts.

Eastern Flames FC Chairwoman and CEO Maram AlButairi described the partnership “a perfect match,” emphasizing that it represents more than sponsorship, it’s about empowering women in football on a global scale. According to Taner Seyis, Managing Director of PUMA Middle East, the Flames’ journey since 2006 has touched more than 10,000 people. For both partners, the focus now is on giving young women a platform to dream bigger and play stronger.

With Emirati Women’s Day celebrated two days ago, the message couldn’t be timelier. What’s happening in Saudi Arabia echoes a broader movement across the Middle East, including in the UAE. women are now changing the game from the inside out

Conclusion

For fans of Eastern Flames FC, this is exciting news. With Puma coming on board and both sides planning fresh community initiatives and fan engagement. For fans the future of women’s football in the Middle East looks brighter than ever.