Giorgio Armani, the Italian designer who built one of the world’s most recognisable fashion empires, has died at the age of 91.
The Armani Group confirmed his death in a statement on Sunday, saying: “With infinite sorrow, the Armani Group announces the passing of its creator, founder, and tireless driving force: Giorgio Armani.”
Armani died at home, the company said. His passing comes just months after he was forced to miss his shows at Milan Fashion Week due to ill health — an absence that prompted widespread concern across the industry.
Founded in 1975, the Armani brand became synonymous with sleek, modern Italian style, revolutionising tailoring with softer silhouettes and understated elegance. The company grew into a global powerhouse, with annual revenues exceeding £2 billion across its fashion, fragrance, cosmetics and homeware divisions.
Armani himself was regarded as one of the most influential designers of the late 20th century, credited with reshaping the look of men’s suits and dressing generations of Hollywood stars and business leaders. His work became a byword for understated luxury and “quiet power dressing.”
In a recent interview with the Financial Times, Armani said he had been preparing for succession with a “gradual transition” of responsibilities to his closest collaborators, including long-time colleague Leo Dell’Orco, members of his family, and his executive team.
“My plans for succession consist of a gradual transition of the responsibilities that I have always handled to those closest to me,” he said. “I want it to be organic and not a moment of rupture.”
Armani had reassured fans after missing the Milan shows earlier this year, thanking the public and promising: “See you in September.”
Born in Piacenza in 1934, Armani began his career as a window dresser before moving into fashion design, where he quickly rose to prominence. Over nearly five decades, he turned his name into a global symbol of Italian style and craftsmanship.
His death marks the end of an era for the fashion industry, though the brand he built is expected to continue under the stewardship of the inner circle he trusted to carry forward his vision.
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Giorgio Armani, Italian fashion icon, dies aged 91