Italian fashion legend Giorgio Armani, founder of a global lifestyle empire and one of the most influential designers of the modern era, has died at the age of 91, his company announced on Thursday.
“With infinite sorrow, the Armani Group announces the passing of its creator, founder, and tireless driving force: Giorgio Armani,” the company said in a statement, adding that he passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loved ones.
Widely regarded as the pioneer of contemporary red-carpet fashion, Armani launched his fashion house in Milan in 1975. Within years, his sleek, understated designs propelled him to the top of the global fashion industry, dressing Hollywood stars and redefining luxury style.
His funeral will be private, but the company said a funeral chamber will be open to the public in Milan on Saturday and Sunday to allow admirers to pay their respects.
“Il Signor Armani, as he was affectionately and respectfully called by employees and collaborators, remained indefatigable to the very end, working until his final days on collections and future projects,” the statement noted.
Armani had scaled back public appearances in recent months due to health reasons, cancelling his Milan menswear show earlier this year and missing the Armani Privé presentation in Paris for the first time in two decades. At the time, he reassured fans he had remotely overseen “every aspect of the show,” insisting he had approved and signed off on everything presented.
Beyond haute couture, Armani expanded his brand into Emporio Armani, offering more affordable lines for younger audiences, and later into luxury hotels and lifestyle ventures, building a multi-billion-euro empire.
His passing comes just weeks before celebrations were set to mark the 50th anniversary of his eponymous label.
Italy’s Culture Minister, Alessandro Giuli, led tributes, calling him “a leading figure in Italian culture, who transformed elegance into a universal language.”
“His understated and innovative style redefined the relationship between fashion, cinema, and society, leaving an indelible mark on contemporary culture,” Giuli said. “He was not only a master of fashion, but also a recognised ambassador of Italian identity around the world.”
AFP
