The world of fashion is in mourning as Giorgio Armani, the legendary Italian designer whose sleek, understated style transformed luxury dressing, has died at the age of 91. His death was confirmed on Thursday by the Armani Group, which announced that he passed away peacefully at his home in Milan, surrounded by loved ones.
A Fashion Pioneer
Born on July 11, 1934, in Piacenza, Italy, Armani originally studied medicine before discovering his passion for design. In 1975, he founded the Armani brand, which would grow into a global empire spanning haute couture, ready-to-wear, accessories, fragrances, interior design, and hospitality.
Armani became synonymous with timeless elegance and quiet sophistication. His revolutionary approach to tailoring, especially the introduction of unstructured jackets and relaxed suits; redefined how men and women dressed in the modern era. His creations were known for their clean lines, muted tones, and minimalist aesthetic that stood apart from flashier trends.
Armani’s influence stretched beyond the runway and into Hollywood. His designs famously dressed Richard Gere in American Gigolo (1980), a collaboration that catapulted Armani onto the global stage. From that moment on, Armani became a go-to designer for red-carpet glamour, clothing countless celebrities, athletes, and public figures.
By the 1980s, his label became synonymous with “power dressing,” giving professionals a sophisticated yet comfortable way to express authority and confidence.
Tributes and Mourning
Tributes have poured in from across the fashion industry and beyond. Fellow designer Donatella Versace described Armani as “a giant whose legacy will live forever,” while Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni hailed him as “an ambassador of Italian excellence who carried our style and creativity to the world.”
A public funeral chamber will be set up in Milan this weekend to allow admirers to pay their respects. A private funeral, as per Armani’s wishes, will follow at a later date.
At the time of his death, Armani’s empire was valued at several billion euros, with global reach through brands such as Giorgio Armani, Emporio Armani, Armani Privé, Armani Exchange, and Armani Casa. Beyond fashion, his influence extended into design, architecture, and lifestyle, making him one of the most versatile figures in modern luxury.