Legendary fashion designer and Italian-born billionaire, Giorgio Armani, has passed on.
His company broke the news of Armani’s death on Thursday. The 91-year-old died at home surrounded by his family.
Before his demise, the iconic stylist had been unwell, preventing him from attending his group’s shows at Milan’s Men’s Fashion Week in June — the first time in his career that he had missed one of his catwalk events.
In a statement shared on its Instagram page, the firm said Armani “worked until his final days, dedicating himself to the company, the collections and the many ongoing future projects”.
Armani’s name became synonymous with elegance and modern sophistication. More than just a designer, he was the archetype of Italian style. He revolutionised fashion by reimagining the structured suit for a new generation, crafting a language of relaxed power dressing for women and understated elegance for men that resonated globally.
“With infinite sorrow, the Armani Group announces the passing of its creator, founder, and tireless driving force: Giorgio Armani. Il Signor Armani, as he was always respectfully and admiringly called by employees and collaborators, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loved ones,” the statement reads.
“Indefatigable to the end, he worked until his final days, dedicating himself to the company, the collections, and the many ongoing and future projects. Over the years, Giorgio Armani has crafted a vision that expanded from fashion to every aspect of life, anticipating the times with extraordinary clarity and pragmatism.
“He has been driven by relentless curiosity and a deep attention to the present and to people. Along this journey, he established an open dialogue with the public, becoming a beloved and respected figure for his ability to connect with everyone. Always mindful of the needs of the community, he has been active on many fronts, especially in support of his beloved Milan.
“Giorgio Armani is a company with fifty years of history, built with emotion and patience. Giorgio Armani always made independence – of thought and action – his hallmark. The company is, now and always, a reflection of this spirit. His family and employees will carry the Group forward in respect and continuity of these values.”
The statement added that his funeral rites will be held “from Saturday, September 6th to Sunday, September 7th, and will be open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., in Milan, at Via Bergognone 59, inside the Armani/Teatro. In accordance with Mr. Armani’s explicit wishes, the funeral will be held privately”.
Tributes have begun to pour in for Armani, with Italy’s President Giorgia Meloni among the first to pay condolences.
“Giorgio Armani leaves us at 91 years old,” she wrote in a statement on X.
“With his elegance, sobriety, and creativity, he was able to bring luster to Italian fashion and inspire the entire world. An icon, a tireless worker, a symbol of the best of Italy. Thank you for everything.”
Fellow fashion mogul Donatella Versace wrote: “The world has lost a giant today. He made history and will be remembered forever”.