The iconic Italian designer Giorgio Armani, who redefined modern fashion and built a global luxury empire worth billions, has passed away at 91 in Milan.
“Il Signor Armani, as he was always respectfully and admiringly called by employees and collaborators, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loved ones,” the Armani Group said in their Instagram post, remembering the founder as “a tireless driving force.”
The post further added, “indefatigable to the end, he worked until his final days, dedicating himself to the company, the collections, and the many ongoing and future projects.”
The Armani Group announced his passing on Thursday. Over decades, Armani crafted a signature Italian elegance that not only defined his collections but also transformed Hollywood’s red carpet into a global stage for style.
Following the news of his passing, social media was flooded with tributes under “#giorgioarmani,” as celebrities, luxury brands, and fans alike paid their respects, celebrating the designer’s iconic legacy and his lasting influence on the global fashion industry.
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Affectionately called “Re Giorgio” (King Giorgio) in Italy, the designer had spent recent months recuperating from illness, missing his Milan Fashion Week shows in June which was his first-ever absence from the runway. He had also been preparing a grand celebration this month to mark the 50th anniversary of his fashion house.
Born in Piacenza in 1934, Giorgio Armani began his journey in the fashion world humbly in 1957 as a window dresser at Milan’s La Rinascente. His talent soon led him to design menswear for Nino Cerruti, but it was in 1975, alongside his partner Sergio Galeotti, that he truly made his mark by founding Giorgio Armani S.p.A., a brand that grew from a small workshop into a global fashion empire, defining elegance and style for generations.
Armani’s global fame skyrocketed in 1980 when Richard Gere donned his suits in American Gigolo, introducing his designs to Hollywood and linking the brand with effortless sophistication. He went ahead to style countless celebrities on the red carpet, solidifying his reputation as an icon in celebrity fashion.
Some of the era’s most famous stars including Arnold Schwarzenegger, Sophia Loren, Jodie Foster, Sean Connery, and Tina Turner were often seen in Armani’s designs. His refined, understated aesthetic sparked a friendly rivalry with fellow 1980s Italian fashion icon Gianni Versace, whose bold and flamboyant style was its striking opposite.
Over time, his influence stretched well beyond ready-to-wear fashion. His brand grew to encompass Armani Privé (haute couture), Emporio Armani, Armani Exchange, along with fragrances, accessories, cosmetics, and home furnishings. By the 2000s, his privately held company was raking in billions in annual revenue, cementing its status as a global luxury powerhouse.
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In August, Armani appeared on the cover of the Financial Times’ HTSI supplement, reflecting on his enduring commitment to fashion and his hands-on role in guiding the company’s creative direction. “I don’t know if I’d use the word workaholic, but hard work is certainly essential to success,” he said, as quoted by CNN. ”My only regret in life was spending too many hours working and not enough time with friends and family.”
The fashion legend even showed interest in other ventures as well. In 2008, Armani acquired Olimpia Milano, Italy’s premier basketball team, and later introduced EA7, a sportswear line inspired by the jersey number of former AC Milan striker Andriy Shevchenko. Drawing from EA7’s style, he designed the Italian team’s uniforms for the London 2012, Rio 2016, and Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games.
Armani’s impact on fashion continues to resonate today, with his meticulous tailoring and classic designs fueling a thriving market for vintage and pre-owned Armani pieces including the counterfeit products.
The proliferation of counterfeit Giorgio Armani products has become a significant concern in the global fashion industry, reflecting broader challenges faced by luxury brands. Counterfeit products make up roughly 3% of global trade, and the fashion industry is among the hardest hit. High-end brands including Gucci, and Louis Vuitton are prime targets due to their popularity and premium pricing. Experts estimate that the global market for fake luxury goods including clothing, footwear, and leather accessories, now exceeds $3 trillion a year, as per Entrupy.
With Armani passing away, the entire industry lost a gem. His contributions in the fashion world will always be seen as an inspiration.