Giorgio Armani, the legendary Italian designer and founder of the Armani fashion empire, has died aged 91. His passing was confirmed by the Armani Group, which mourned the loss of its “creator, founder, and tireless driving force.”
Known worldwide as “Re Giorgio” (King Giorgio), Armani revolutionised fashion with his relaxed tailoring and understated aesthetic, reinterpreting Italian suit design with lighter fabrics and softer silhouettes.
His vision of elegance, favouring simplicity over extravagance, reshaped power dressing for both men and women and earned him global acclaim.
Hollywood stars, from Richard Gere in American Gigolo to Cate Blanchett and Julia Roberts, helped make Armani a household name.
Beyond clothing, his empire extended into perfumes, hotels, interior design, and even food, generating billions in revenue and cementing his status as one of the most successful Italian-born designers.
Born in Piacenza in 1934, Armani originally studied medicine before turning to fashion, launching his first collection in 1975. He often credited his late business and romantic partner, Sergio Galeotti, as instrumental in the brand’s early success.
While his career brought immense wealth and influence, Armani also faced controversy, including tax disputes and criticism of his unfiltered remarks. Yet he remained steadfast in his independence, famously writing: “Success for me has never been about accumulating wealth, but rather the desire to say, through my work, the way I think.”
A funeral chamber will be open in Milan this weekend, with a private ceremony to follow. His legacy is expected to be carried on by close family members and long-time collaborators. As he himself once promised: “There will be an Armani after Armani.”
Source: ABC News
