Italian-born billionaire and fashion icon Giorgio Armani has died at the age of 91.
Giorgio Armani’s passing confirmed
He passed away peacefully at his home on Thursday, surrounded by his loved ones, his company announced.
“With infinite sorrow, the Armani Group announces the passing of its creator, founder, and tireless driving force: Giorgio Armani. Indefatigable to the end, he worked until his final days, dedicating himself to the company, the collections, and the many ongoing and future projects,” according to a statement from the Armani Group.
A public funeral chamber will be set up at Milan’s Armani Teatro for fans and admirers to pay their respects.
It will be open from 9:00 to 18:00 (09:00–18:00 SAST) on Saturday and Sunday. A private family ceremony will follow at a later date, which has not been announced.
Armani was still working in recent months despite health challenges, per Sky News reports.
In June, he missed his runway shows at Milan Fashion Week for the first time in his career due to illness. He later directed a couture show in Paris remotely via video link.
Only a week before his death, Armani gave an interview to the Financial Times, admitting that he oversaw “every aspect of the show remotely.”
“My greatest weakness is that I am in control of everything. Everything you will see has been done under my direction and carries my approval,” he added.
Tributes from around the world
Italian President Giorgia Meloni described Armani as “an icon, a tireless worker, a symbol of the best of Italy.”
Designer Donatella Versace said:
“The world has lost a giant today. He made history and will be remembered forever.”
Fellow Italian designer Valentino Garavani called Armani “always a friend, never a rival,” praising his “immense talent” and his commitment to a style that was uniquely his own.
Actress Julia Roberts, who famously wore Armani at the 1990 Golden Globes, posted on Instagram:
“A true friend. A legend.”
Football clubs such as Juventus and Napoli also paid tribute, with Juventus calling him “a timeless icon of elegance and Italian style.”
Career and achievements
Giorgio Armani was born on 11 July 1934 in Piacenza, Italy.
He started his fashion career in the 1960s and founded the Armani brand in Milan in 1975. The label expanded beyond clothing to include accessories, fragrances, eyewear, home décor, and luxury hotels.
Armani’s company was unique among major fashion houses because he remained its sole owner.
Unlike brands such as Gucci and Prada, he never listed the company on the stock market, keeping it independent.
According to Forbes, Armani’s company generated $2.4 billion in revenue last year.
What happens to the Armani Group?
Armani had no children. His expected heirs include his sister Rosanna, two nieces, a nephew, and his long-time collaborator Leo Dell’Orco, who led the menswear division.
Other family members, including his nephew Andrea Camerana and nieces Silvana and Roberta, have worked with the Armani Group for many years.
In his autobiography Per Amore, Armani wrote:
“There will be an Armani after Armani.”
He made clear that the company would continue under the guidance of his family and trusted colleagues.
