Legendary Fashion Designer Giorgio Armani Passes Away at 91

MILAN -- Giorgio Armani, the renowned Italian fashion designer celebrated for his sophisticated yet understated style, passed away on Thursday at the age of 91, as confirmed by his fashion house. He died peacefully at home, surrounded by family. The fashion house noted his unwavering dedication to his work, stating he continued to engage with the company and its future projects until his last moments.

Armani was a pivotal figure in the fashion industry, and his absence was felt during the Milan Fashion Week in June 2025, where he missed the event for the first time to recover from an undisclosed health issue.

A public viewing is set to take place at the Armani Theater, where he showcased his ready-to-wear collections, on Saturday and Sunday. His funeral will be held privately, with no details disclosed. Tributes have flooded in from political leaders and fellow designers, with Donatella Versace expressing that the world has lost a giant who will be remembered forever. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni praised Armani as a symbol of elegance, creativity, and the best of Italy.

Armani revolutionized the fashion landscape beginning in the late 1970s with his innovative designs, which included unlined jackets and relaxed silhouettes. His work established Italian ready-to-wear fashion on an international platform, bridging styles from corporate offices to Hollywood red carpets. With his classic tailored pieces crafted from luxurious fabrics, Armani became a favorite among the elite, often dressing stars in stunning evening gowns and handsome suits.

At the time of his passing, Armani had built a fashion empire valued at over $10 billion, encompassing not just clothing but also accessories, home goods, fragrances, and cosmetics. He was ranked among the world's top 200 billionaires according to Forbes. Additionally, Armani ran several restaurants, bars, clubs, and even owned a basketball team, EA7 Emporio Armani Milan.

Born on July 11, 1934, in Piacenza, Italy, Armani initially aspired to be a doctor before a part-time job in fashion ignited his passion. In 1975, he and his partner Sergio Galeotti launched their menswear label, quickly gaining recognition for its relaxed yet sophisticated aesthetic. The signature Armani suit became a staple for affluent men, while his introduction of the pantsuit transformed women's fashion in the workplace during the 1980s.

His designs, characterized by their practicality and elegance, earned him numerous accolades in the industry. The 1980 film "American Gigolo" marked a significant moment in both his and Richard Gere's careers, establishing Armani as a go-to designer in Hollywood. Over his career, his garments adorned many award-winning actors and actresses, further solidifying his status in the fashion world.

Armani did not just focus on fashion; he embraced philanthropy, actively supporting children's charities and AIDS awareness campaigns, and was named a U.N. goodwill ambassador in 2002. He remained closely tied to his family, particularly his niece Roberta, who has been integral to his brand's public relations and celebrity connections.

Survived by his sister and two nieces, Armani's legacy is expected to continue through the dedicated team he cultivated over the years, ensuring that his vision for the brand endures.