ITALIAN DESIGNER GIORGIO ARMANI DIES AT 91

Giorgio Armani

Summary

• Giorgio Armani died at 91 while continuing to work despite recent health problems
• The fashion designer had been planning succession for his empire but never announced retirement
• His company confirmed his death, noting he worked until his final days surrounded by loved ones

Giorgio Armani died at age 91 after battling illness in recent months. The Italian fashion designer passed away while continuing his work, something he loved throughout his career.

Armani, known for his understated elegance, missed Milan Fashion Week in June 2025 due to an undisclosed condition. The designer had been absent from recent fashion shows due to poor health, though his company had previously stated he was recovering at home.

Giorgio Armani sees his succession as a gradual handover to his closest collaborators and family, the Italian fashion designer told the Financial Times on Friday, after poor health forced him to miss the recent Milan and Paris fashion shows. He had been working on plans for his fashion empire's future leadership.

The designer never announced retirement plans. He continued shaping his vision until his death, maintaining his role as the creative force behind one of fashion's most respected houses.

His company released a statement confirming the news. The announcement described Armani as an "tireless creator" who "worked until his final days" surrounded by family. Employees and collaborators knew him as "Mr. Armani", reflecting the respect he commanded throughout the industry.

Armani built his fashion house from the ground up, creating a brand synonymous with Italian craftsmanship and sophisticated design. most revered fashion labels and helped define the "Made in Italy" slogan as a sign of quality for consumers His work influenced how people dress for both formal occasions and everyday wear.

The designer revolutionized women's fashion by introducing structured blazers and tailored suits that gave women professional authority in the workplace. His menswear redefined masculine elegance with softer lines and luxurious fabrics.

In the current luxury landscape, which is dominated by conglomerates such as Louis Vuitton owner LVMH and Gucci parent company Kering, Armani was one of the few independent luxury fashion houses remaining under founder control.

His death leaves questions about the future of Giorgio Armani SpA, valued at billions of dollars. The company operates hundreds of stores worldwide and employs thousands of people across multiple fashion lines and business ventures.

Armani's influence extended beyond fashion into interior design, hotels, and restaurants. He dressed Hollywood stars for red carpet events and created costumes for major films, cementing his status as a cultural icon.

The fashion world mourns the loss of one of its most influential figures. Armani's legacy includes not just his designs, but his approach to business and his dedication to Italian craftsmanship standards.