MILAN – Legendary Italian fashion designer Giorgio Armani, a visionary who reshaped modern style with his understated elegance and relaxed tailoring, has died at the age of 91. The Armani Group confirmed on Thursday that its creator and founder passed away peacefully at his home, surrounded by his loved ones.
Armani, often referred to as “Re Giorgio” (King George), built an empire over five decades, starting with a menswear line in 1975 with his partner Sergio Galeotti. His groundbreaking unstructured jacket and minimalist aesthetic quickly became a global phenomenon after being featured in the 1980 film “American Gigolo.” This launched a long-standing relationship with Hollywood, where his designs became a staple on red carpets.
His business grew from a small fashion house into a multi-billion dollar empire encompassing clothing, accessories, perfumes, home furnishings, and luxury hotels. Unlike many of his peers, Armani maintained sole ownership of his company, retaining direct control over all creative and business aspects until his final days.
Armani’s passing comes at a time when the brand is celebrating its 50th anniversary. Tributes are pouring in from across the fashion world and beyond, with many remembering his commitment to timeless style over fleeting trends. His legacy is cemented not only in the fashion industry but also in the broader culture, as a symbol of sophisticated, effortless elegance. The company has announced that a public funeral chamber will be open in Milan on September 6 and 7, allowing admirers to pay their respects.
