Italian fashion designer Giorgio Armani, whose unstructured, minimalist tailoring transformed modern fashion, died Thursday at the age of 91, his fashion house confirmed.
Armani died at home while recovering from an undisclosed illness. He had missed his runway shows in June but was planning a major celebration of the 50th anniversary of his signature label during Milan Fashion Week in September.
“With infinite sorrow, the Armani Group announces the passing of its creator, founder, and tireless driving force: Giorgio Armani,” the fashion house said in a statement. “Il Signor Armani, as he was always respectfully and admiringly called by employees and collaborators, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loved ones. Indefatigable to the end, he worked until his final days, dedicating himself to the company, the collections, and the many ongoing and future projects.”
Armani’s fashion empire, known for its timeless elegance and sharp simplicity, extended worldwide and was especially popular in the Caribbean. At the time of his death, Forbes estimated his net worth at US$12.1 billion.
A public funeral chamber will be set up at Milan’s Armani Teatro this weekend, allowing mourners to pay their respects from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Italy’s President Giorgia Meloni was among the first to pay tribute. “Giorgio Armani leaves us at 91 years old,” she wrote on X. “With his elegance, sobriety, and creativity, he was able to bring lustre to Italian fashion and inspire the entire world. An icon, a tireless worker, a symbol of the best of Italy. Thank you for everything.”
