Milan, Italy Sep 5, 2025 (Issuewire.com) - Giorgio Armani, the renowned Italian fashion designer, has passed away at the age of 91, his company confirmed on Thursday. The press release said, "With infinite sorrow, the Armani Group announces the passing of its creator, founder, and tireless driving force: Giorgio Armani.” The designer "passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loved ones," the statement added. "Tireless, he worked until his final days, dedicating himself to the company, its collections, and the diverse and ever-evolving projects both existing and in progress."
Armani had faced health issues for a while, and his absence from Milan’s Men’s Fashion Week this June marked the first missed show of his entire career. His final public appearance also took place on 21st May, 2025.
Called “Re Giorgio”, or King Giorgio, Armani launched his first namesake brand back in 1975. It quickly made a name for itself and became a symbol of sleek and understated style. As his company noted, after it was launched, the brand quickly reached beyond fashion into everyday life. The label’s defining moment came in 1980, when Armani created the suits worn by Richard Gere in American Gigolo. This sparked global recognition for the designer and his brand. From there, the brand grew into a vast empire spanning couture, ready-to-wear, footwear, accessories, eyewear, and even homeware.
Armani’s first red carpet journey began in 1978. This is the year when Diane Keaton wore one of his designs to the red carpet of the Academy Awards. That night, she won best actress for her role in Annie Hall. Unlike the usual gowns, Keaton chose a skirt and a blazer. It was a choice Armani later remembered as her desire to seem relatable before glamorous. The designer recalled this incident later and said, "It’s interesting to look back at this because, in 1978, all of us were adjusting how we thought of ourselves, socially and professionally." "In particular, women were discovering a new voice as professionals."
Armani often said he was credited with giving women the wardrobe to rival men, as his power suits defined pop culture in the 1970s and 1980s. His unlined jacket and tailored pants showcased a new silhouette that put Italian ready-to-wear on the global stage. While the suit became his hallmark, his dresses carried the same elegance and precision. His empire then expanded into fragrance, cosmetics, home decor, and accessories. Forbes valued his fortune at $12.1 billion, ranking him 235th worldwide.
Giorgia Meloni, the Italian Prime Minister, paid tribute to the designer’s "elegance, sobriety, and creativity.” She posted on Instagram, “Giorgio Armani has passed away at the age of 91. With his elegance, sobriety, and creativity, he brought prestige to Italian fashion and inspired the entire world. An icon, a tireless worker, a symbol of the best of Italy. Thank you for everything.”
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