Italian fashion icon Giorgio Armani, the man behind a global luxury empire, has died at the age of 91, his company announced on Thursday.
“With infinite sorrow, the Armani Group announces the passing of its creator, founder, and tireless driving force: Giorgio Armani,” the company said in a statement, adding that he passed away “peacefully, surrounded by his loved ones.”
Armani, widely regarded as the best-known contemporary designer, launched his fashion house in Milan in 1975.
Within a few years, he rose to the top of the industry, dressing some of the world’s biggest stars and building a brand synonymous with understated elegance.
The company noted that “Il Signor Armani, as he was always respectfully and admiringly called by employees and collaborators.
worked until his final days, dedicating himself to the company, the collections, and the many ongoing and future projects.”
His funeral will be held privately, but the Armani Group said members of the public would be able to pay their respects in a funeral chamber in Milan on Saturday and Sunday.
Earlier this year, Armani canceled his menswear show in Milan due to health concerns and also missed the Paris Armani Privé showcase on his doctors’ advice.
“In 20 years of Armani Privé, it’s the first time I’m not in Paris,” he said in a statement to AFP in July, adding that although he felt ready, “my doctors advised more rest.”
He stressed, however, that he had “followed and overseen every aspect of the show remotely” and “approved and signed off on everything you will see.”
Armani, credited with inventing red-carpet fashion, expanded his empire beyond haute couture to include Emporio Armani, a younger and more affordable line, as well as luxury hotels.
His death comes just weeks before celebrations marking the 50th anniversary of his eponymous label.
Tributes poured in following the announcement, with Italy’s Culture Minister Alessandro Giuli describing Armani as “a leading figure in Italian culture, who was able to transform elegance into a universal language.”
He added: “His understated and innovative style redefined the relationship between fashion, cinema, and society, leaving an indelible mark on contemporary culture.”
