Milan: Legendary Italian fashion designer Giorgio Armani passed away today at the age of 91. The Armani Group confirmed his death, attributing it to age-related causes. Widely hailed as “Re Giorgio” (King Giorgio), Armani was regarded as the pioneer of modern Italian style. His globally renowned brand generates an annual turnover of €2.3 billion and is considered an icon of the fashion world.
Armani breathed his last at his residence in Milan, surrounded by family members. Known for his humility and respect toward employees, Armani earned admiration both within his company and across the fashion industry. He was frequently recognized as one of the world’s best designers, with his creations reflecting the elegance of Italy. His designs have repeatedly graced Hollywood’s red carpets, further solidifying his international legacy.
Born in 1934 in Piacenza, northern Italy, Armani initially pursued medicine before serving in the military. In 1957, he began working as a window dresser at Milan’s famed La Rinascente department store, where his journey into fashion began. In 1964, designer Nino Cerruti hired him to design menswear, where Armani first experimented with unstructured jackets—an innovation that later became his hallmark. He rose to fame through his suit jackets, and in 1975, along with architect and partner Sergio Galeotti, founded the Armani brand. From there, he never looked back.