Giorgio Armani, Who Changed The Face Of Fashion, Passes Away At 91
Giorgio Armani, the legendary designer who transformed the landscape of Milan's ready-to-wear with his signature unstructured tailoring, has died at the age of 91.
Giorgio Armani, the legendary designer who transformed the landscape of Milan's ready-to-wear with his signature unstructured tailoring and timeless elegance, has died at the age of 91.
Legendary Italian Designer Giorgio Armani
His fashion house said he passed away peacefully at home. Armani had missed his shows in June while recovering from an illness that was not made public.
He had been planning a big event to celebrate 50 years of his Giorgio Armani brand during Milan Fashion Week later this month.
The fashion house announced on Instagram that the Italian designer had passed away. "With infinite condolences, the Armani group announces the passing of its inventor, founder and tireless engine: Giorgio Armani. Mr Armani, as he was always called with respect and admiration by employees and collaborators, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loved ones. Tireless, he has worked until the last days, dedicating himself to the company, to the collections, to the different and always new projects in being and to becoming,” the post read.
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"Over the years, Giorgio Armani has created a vision that has expanded from fashion to every aspect of life, anticipating the times with extraordinary clarity and precision. He was driven by an inexorable curiosity, attention for the present and people. In this journey he created an open dialogue with the public, becoming a beloved and respected figure for his ability to communicate with everyone. Always attentive to the needs of the community, he has committed himself on many fronts, above all to his beloved Milan,” they added.
Who Was Giorgio Armani?
Giorgio Armani, born on July 11, 1934, in Piacenza, Italy, became one of the world’s most influential fashion designers. Initially pursuing medicine and photography, he entered fashion as a window dresser and buyer before moving into design. In 1975, with partner Sergio Galeotti, he co-founded Armani S.p.A., selling their Volkswagen to raise $10,000. The brand grew into a global empire spanning fashion, accessories, fragrances, home decor, restaurants, and luxury hotels.
Armani revolutionized fashion with his soft-shouldered suits and minimalist elegance, redefining men’s and women’s wardrobes. His liningless sports jacket and the t-shirt became iconic, while his “power suits” empowered businesswomen in the 1980s. Hollywood boosted his fame, notably through Richard Gere in American Gigolo (1980). Armani went on to design for over 200 films and dressed countless celebrities, including Cate Blanchett, Beyoncé, and George Clooney.
With an empire valued at over $10 billion, Armani remained fiercely independent, never selling or merging his company. He also owned restaurants, bars, clubs, and the basketball team EA7 Emporio Armani Milan. Known for his understated personal style and private lifestyle, he owned homes in Broni, Pantelleria, and St. Tropez.
Armani supported various charities and was named a U.N. goodwill ambassador for refugees in 2002. He had no children but was close to his niece Roberta and looked to her, Leo Dell’Orco, and niece Silvana Armani for succession. His legacy is one of timeless elegance, entrepreneurial vision, and a transformative impact on global fashion.
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