Giorgio Armani has passed away at the age of 91 at his home in Milan. His company confirmed the news, which comes just weeks before a planned 50th anniversary celebration during Milan Fashion Week.
The designer first sparked concern last June when he missed Milan Fashion Week for the first time while recovering from an undisclosed condition. Many in the fashion industry saw his absence as a sign of decline.
Armani built a $10 billion empire that stretched far beyond clothing. It included hotels, restaurants, cosmetics, and even chocolates and flowers.
He once said: “I design for real people. There is no virtue whatsoever in creating clothes and accessories that are not practical.” That attitude drove his entire brand and helped him stand out.
In 1975 Armani and his partner Sergio Galeotti launched their menswear line with $10,000 from selling a Volkswagen. A year later they added womenswear, which became known for bold pantsuits that symbolized confidence for women in the workplace.
His jackets, muted tones, and soft tailoring became trademarks, seen on Hollywood stars and Wall Street executives alike. By the 1980s the Armani suit was considered a status symbol around the world.
Richard Gere wore Armani in American Gigolo, turning both men into global stars. After that Armani became the go-to name for celebrities like Brad Pitt, George Clooney, Anne Hathaway, and Jodie Foster. He collected wardrobe credits in more than 200 films and in 2003 earned a plaque on Rodeo Drive’s Walk of Fame.
On Oscars night his creations regularly stole the spotlight. Sean Penn wore Armani when he won Best Actor in 2009, while Anne Hathaway walked the red carpet in a strapless white Armani Prive gown that same year.
David and Victoria Beckham became campaign faces for his underwear line in 2009. Armani’s reach went from high fashion to casual lines with Emporio Armani and Armani Exchange aimed at younger audiences.
At the time of his death, the Armani brand employed more than 9,000 people and operated over 600 stores across the globe. His two hotels and dozens of restaurants expanded his reach into hospitality.
Despite his success, Armani lived a quiet and private life. His homes in Broni, Pantelleria, and St. Tropez reflected his minimalist taste, with bare walls and simple furnishings.
He never had children but was very close to his niece Roberta Armani, who handled public relations for the brand and connected him with celebrities. She arranged the Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes wedding in 2006 where Armani designed both outfits.
For succession, Armani reportedly entrusted leadership to his niece Silvana Armani, who runs womenswear, and Leo Dell’Orco, who heads menswear. Together they are expected to carry the empire forward.
In one interview Armani explained his vision by saying: “I love things that age well, things that don’t date and become living examples of the absolute best.”
