Legendary Italian designer Giorgio Armani dies aged 91

Giorgio Armani, the legendary Italian designer and founder of his namesake fashion empire, has died at the age of 91.

In a shared statement, the Armani Group of brands confirmed: "With infinite sorrow, the Armani Group announces the passing of its creator, founder, and tireless driving force: Giorgio Armani.

"Il Signor Armani, as he was always respectfully and admiringly called by employees and collaborators, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loved ones. Indefatigable to the end, he worked until his final days, dedicating himself to the company, the collections, and the many ongoing and future projects."

One of the most influential figures in fashion, Armani redefined menswear with his clean, soft tailoring and understated approach to design. His "less is more" aesthetic has had enduring appeal and continues to resonate in today’s return to refined, polished dressing.

He founded the Armani brand in 1975 alongside his late partner, Sergio Galeotti. Over five decades, the company has grown into a global powerhouse, spanning fashion, fragrance, interiors, and hospitality. In 2024, the privately held business generated €2.3 billion in revenue.

"Over the years, Giorgio Armani has crafted a vision that expanded from fashion to every aspect of life, anticipating the times with extraordinary clarity and pragmatism," the statement continued.

"He has been driven by relentless curiosity and a deep attention to the present and to people. Along this journey, he established an open dialogue with the public, becoming a beloved and respected figure for his ability to connect with everyone. Always mindful of the needs of the community, he has been active on many fronts, especially in support of his beloved Milan.

"Giorgio Armani is a company with fifty years of history, built with emotion and patience. Giorgio Armani always made independence – of thought and action – his hallmark. The company is, now and always, a reflection of this spirit. His family and employees will carry the group forward in respect and continuity of these values."

Despite recent health concerns, Armani remained hands-on until the very end. He missed his first-ever Armani Privé couture show in Paris in July due to doctor’s orders, but remained involved remotely - approving every detail from makeup to model casting for the autumn/winter 2025-26 collection via video link.

In what now appears to be a carefully considered transition, Armani had recently spoken about his succession plans in an interview with the Financial Times.

"I would like the succession to be organic and not a moment of rupture," he said. "My plans consist of a gradual transition of the responsibilities that I have always handled to those closest to me, such as Leo Dell’Orco [Head of Menswear Design at the Armani Group], the members of my family, and the entire working team."

Armani had been recovering at home in preparation for the brand’s 50th anniversary, set to be celebrated during Milan Fashion Week later this month. His death leaves uncertainty around the milestone event and the company’s future leadership.