Giorgio Armani, fashion icon known for unstructured tailoring, has died at 91.
Giorgio Armani, the Italian designer who transformed global fashion with his minimalist elegance and unstructured tailoring, has died at the age of 91, his fashion house confirmed. Giorgio Armani died at home in Milan.
The designer, known as “Re Giorgio" (King Giorgio) in his homeland, had been recovering from illness in recent months and missed his Milan Fashion Week shows in June- the first time he had ever been absent from the runway. He had been planning a major celebration this month to mark the 50th anniversary of his fashion house.
The fashion house announced in a post on Instagram. “With infinite condolences, the Armani group announces the passing of its inventor, founder and tireless engine: Giorgio Armani. Mr Armani, as he was always called with respect and admiration by employees and collaborators, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loved ones."
Giorgio Armani’s Journey: From Medicine To Fashion
Born in Piacenza in 1934, Giorgio Armani initially studied medicine before shifting careers. In 1957, he joined the Milan department store La Rinascente as a window dresser before moving on to design menswear for Nino Cerruti. In 1975, together with his partner Sergio Galeotti, he launched Giorgio Armani S.p.A., which would grow into one of the world’s most influential fashion empires.
Giorgio Armani revolutionised men’s and women’s fashion with his unstructured jackets and suits, which stripped away rigid padding and gave clothes a softer, more natural silhouette. His clean lines, neutral palettes and androgynous aesthetic helped define modern elegance in the late 20th century.
His international breakthrough came in 1980 when Richard Gere wore Armani suits in American Gigolo, propelling his brand into Hollywood and making it synonymous with understated glamour. Giorgio Armani went on to dress countless stars for the red carpet, cementing his role as a pioneer of celebrity style.
Over the years, Giorgio Armani expanded far beyond ready-to-wear. His empire grew to include Armani Privé (haute couture), Emporio Armani, Armani Exchange as well as fragrances, accessories, cosmetics and home decor. By the 2000s, his privately owned company was generating billions in annual revenue.
Despite his business success, Giorgio Armani retained hands-on control over design, marketing and strategy- a rarity in the fashion industry.
Giorgio Armani’s Legacy And Influence
Giorgio Armani is credited with making Milan a global fashion capital, alongside rivals Valentino and Versace. He helped export “Italian chic" worldwide, replacing flashy excess with quiet sophistication. His aesthetic influenced office wardrobes, red carpets and even sports uniforms- including those for the Italian Olympic team.
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First Published:
September 04, 2025, 19:00 IST
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