Italian fashion designer Giorgio Armani, one of the most influential figures in modern fashion, has died at the age of 91. The news was confirmed by his company on Thursday, stating he passed away “surrounded by his loved ones.”
In its official statement, the Armani Group said:
“With infinite sorrow, the Armani Group announces the passing of its creator, founder, and tireless driving force: Giorgio Armani.”
The announcement was first reported by France 24, which noted that Armani’s fashion house would set up a funeral chamber in Milan on Saturday and Sunday, followed by a private funeral at a later date.

Photo: Giorgio Armani-Instagram
Piacenza in 1934, Armani started out in medicine before moving into window dressing and eventually fashion design. In 1975, he co-founded his namesake label, selling his Volkswagen Beetle to raise the funds. What began as a small venture grew into one of the most powerful fashion empires in the world, spanning couture, ready-to-wear, perfumes, hotels, and interior design.
He was known for pioneering unstructured tailoring, a style that stripped away stiffness and redefined power dressing in the 1980s. Armani’s designs became synonymous with understated luxury, worn by Hollywood stars, business leaders, and royalty alike. By 2025, the Armani Group was generating an annual turnover of more than €2.3 billion ($2.7 billion), making it one of Italy’s most successful fashion houses.
Armani’s health had been declining in recent months. In June, he missed Milan Men’s Fashion Week—marking the first time in his decades-long career that he was absent from a catwalk show. His absence was widely seen as a sign of his struggles, given his reputation for personally overseeing every aspect of his business, from advertising campaigns to the final touches on a runway collection.

Photo: Giorgio Armani-Instagram
In Italy, Armani was affectionately known as Re Giorgio (King Giorgio). Unlike many designers who later stepped back from the spotlight, Armani remained at the heart of his company until the end. His eye for detail and insistence on perfection set him apart, shaping a brand that balanced creativity with strong business acumen.
The company confirmed that a funeral chamber will be open to the public in Milan over the weekend, allowing admirers and industry figures to pay their respects. A private family funeral will follow at a later date. Giorgio Armani leaves behind not just a global fashion empire, but also a legacy that reshaped how the world understands elegance, discipline, and Italian style.
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