Italian fashion legend Giorgio Armani, whose minimalist style reshaped modern fashion and built a global empire, passed away on Thursday at his home in Milan. He was 91.
The Armani Group confirmed his death in a statement, describing him as the “tireless driving force” of the brand who remained dedicated to his work until his final days.
“With infinite sorrow, the Armani Group announces the passing of its creator, founder and tireless driving force: Giorgio Armani. Indefatigable to the end, he worked until his final days, dedicating himself to the company, the collections and the many ongoing projects,” the statement read. No cause of death was disclosed.
A private funeral will be held in line with his wishes, while a public memorial is scheduled for this weekend at the Armani/Teatro in Milan.
Armani was expected to mark the 50th anniversary of his label during this month’s Milan Fashion Week, though his absence from recent shows had raised concerns about his health.
He revolutionized fashion in the late 1970s with softly structured jackets, subdued colors, and relaxed tailoring, offering an elegant yet comfortable alternative to the era’s stiff luxury. His designs for Richard Gere in American Gigolo (1980) catapulted him to global fame, while his gowns and tuxedos became red-carpet staples for stars like Michelle Pfeiffer and Lady Gaga.
At the time of his passing, Armani presided over a diversified business empire worth more than $10 billion, spanning clothing, accessories, perfumes, hotels, restaurants, and even ownership of basketball team Olimpia Milano.
Born in Piacenza in 1934, Armani studied medicine before shifting to fashion, starting as a window dresser and later designing menswear for Cerruti. He co-founded his own label in 1975 with Sergio Galeotti, quickly achieving international recognition. By the 1980s, licensing deals and affordable lines such as Emporio Armani propelled the brand worldwide.
Beyond fashion, Armani designed costumes for more than 100 films, supported art institutions, and embraced sustainability initiatives like the Green Carpet Challenge. His eagle logo became one of the most recognizable symbols in global fashion.
