Italian fashion icon Giorgio Armani passed away peacefully at his Milan home at the age of 91, the Armani Group announced on Thursday. Armani, widely recognized as one of the most influential designers of the 20th and 21st centuries, remained active and engaged with his brand and projects until his final days. The company’s statement paid tribute to him as the “creator, founder and tireless driving force” behind the brand, noting he was surrounded by loved ones at his passing.
Armani’s last years and legacy
In June 2025, Armani missed his first-ever runway show at Milan’s Men’s Fashion Week due to health concerns. His absence marked the end of an era, underlining his legendary commitment to overseeing every detail of his collections for nearly five decades. The Armani Group emphasized his “relentless curiosity and deep attention to people,” a quality that made him beloved worldwide for his ability to connect through style and vision.
The iconic designer’s empire spans luxury clothing, fragrances, cosmetics, accessories, hotels, and interiors under Armani/Casa. He singlehandedly built a company that generates about $2.7 billion annually and retained sole ownership, a rarity in a market dominated by conglomerates. The future leadership of the brand remains under close watch following his death.
Italian mourning and global tributes
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni mourned Armani’s death, declaring him “a symbol of the best of Italy.” She praised his “elegance, sobriety, and creativity” that put Italian fashion on the global map and inspired many. Globally, celebrities and fashion aficionados recalled Armani’s transformative impact on fashion, especially his revolutionary approach to menswear and power dressing.
Early life and rise in fashion
Born in Piacenza in 1934, Armani initially studied medicine but switched to fashion. His early career included roles as a window dresser and menswear designer for La Rinascente and Nino Cerruti. In 1975, he launched Giorgio Armani S.p.A. with partner Sergio Galeotti, revolutionizing the fashion industry by replacing rigid, padded suits with relaxed and elegant tailoring.
Armani’s designs dressed stars from Diane Keaton’s Oscar night in "Annie Hall" to Richard Gere in "American Gigolo," blending luxury with understated elegance. His aesthetic set new standards for androgynous power dressing and timeless style.
Unique facts about Giorgio Armani
- Began career as a window dresser before launching his fashion house in 1975.
- First to popularize unstructured, padding-free suits, revolutionizing menswear.
- Dressed iconic Hollywood stars including Diane Keaton and Richard Gere.
- Maintained sole ownership of his company amidst a landscape of conglomerates.
- His brand produces over $2.7 billion in annual revenue.
- Appointed “Re Giorgio” for his commanding presence in Italian fashion.
- Had a longstanding partnership with architect and designer Sergio Galeotti.
- Never married; openly discussed relationships with both men and women.
- Missed his first runway show in nearly 50 years in 2025 due to health.
- A private funeral will be held in Milan following public viewing days.
Armani’s funeral chamber will open to the public in Milan on September 6 and 7, 2025, followed by a private family service. His company and global admirers vow to safeguard his legacy and continue advancing the brand with respect and love. Known for his meticulous supervision of every detail from the runway to marketing, Armani’s passing marks the end of an era in global fashion.
