Giorgio Armani, the famed fashion designer and Italian millionaire, has died.
The corporation announced Armani’s death on Thursday. The 91-year-old died at home, surrounded by his family.
Prior to his death, the legendary stylist was ill, preventing him from attending his group’s shows at Milan’s Men’s Fashion Week in June – the first time in his career he had missed a runway event.
In a statement posted on Instagram, the company stated that Armani “worked until his final days, dedicating himself to the company, the collections, and the many ongoing future projects”.
Armani’s brand has become synonymous with elegance and sophisticated sophistication. More than merely a designer, he was the embodiment of Italian elegance. He transformed fashion by reinventing the structured suit for a new generation, creating a language of comfortable power dressing for women and understated elegance for men that resonated around the world.
“With infinite sorrow, the Armani Group announces the passing of its creator, founder, and tireless driving force: Giorgio Armani. Il Signor Armani, as he was always respectfully and admiringly called by employees and collaborators, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loved ones,” the statement reads.
“Indefatigable to the end, he worked until his final days, dedicating himself to the company, the collections, and the many ongoing and future projects. Over the years, Giorgio Armani has crafted a vision that expanded from fashion to every aspect of life, anticipating the times with extraordinary clarity and pragmatism.
“He has been driven by relentless curiosity and a deep attention to the present and to people. Along this journey, he established an open dialogue with the public, becoming a beloved and respected figure for his ability to connect with everyone. Always mindful of the needs of the community, he has been active on many fronts, especially in support of his beloved Milan.
“Giorgio Armani is a company with fifty years of history, built with emotion and patience. Giorgio Armani always made independence – of thought and action – his hallmark. The company is, now and always, a reflection of this spirit. His family and employees will carry the Group forward in respect and continuity of these values.”
According to the announcement, his funeral will take place “from Saturday, September 6th to Sunday, September 7th, and will be open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., in Milan, at Via Bergognone 59, inside the Armani/Teatro.” According to Mr. Armani’s specific intentions, the funeral will be held privately.”
Tributes have begun to come in for Armani, with Italy’s President Giorgia Meloni among the first to express sorrow.
“Giorgio Armani leaves us at 91 years old,” she wrote in a statement on X.
“With his elegance, sobriety, and creativity, he was able to bring luster to Italian fashion and inspire the entire world. An icon, a tireless worker, a symbol of the best of Italy. Thank you for everything.”
Fellow fashion mogul Donatella Versace wrote: “The world has lost a giant today. He made history and will be remembered forever”.
