Iconic Fashion Designer Giorgio Armani Passes Away at 91

Giorgio Armani, the legendary Italian designer who revolutionized fashion and redefined modern elegance, has died at the age of 91. His passing marks the end of an era not only for fashion but for global culture.

Armani’s namesake company confirmed the news on Sunday, writing, “With infinite sorrow, the Armani Group announces the passing of its creator, founder and tireless driving force: Giorgio Armani.” In their statement, the brand pledged to carry his legacy forward “with respect, responsibility, and love.”

The designer, who had reportedly missed several fashion shows due to illness, was expected to attend the upcoming 50th anniversary celebration of his iconic label later this month. Now, that milestone will serve as a tribute to the man who forever changed the way the world dresses.

Born in 1934 in Piacenza, Italy, Armani began his career dressing department store window displays a modest start for someone who would become one of the most influential figures in fashion history. By the 1960s, he transitioned into menswear design, and in 1975, he launched his own label.

It was Armani who liberated men’s and women’s fashion from rigid tailoring, creating the softer, more fluid silhouettes that defined the 1980s and became staples of corporate power dressing. His minimalist, yet unmistakably luxurious approach to design earned him a place in the cultural zeitgeist.

A pivotal moment came with Richard Gere’s wardrobe in American Gigolo, where Armani’s sleek suits caught global attention. Hollywood fell in love, and Armani became the go-to designer for red carpet royalty.

The brand would go on to evolve into a global fashion powerhouse, offering everything from haute couture and ready-to-wear collections to fragrances, home goods, and even luxury hotels. Despite last year’s 5% dip, Armani's empire still raked in $2.7 billion in profits in 2024 a testament to his enduring influence.

Celebrity tributes began pouring in almost immediately:

• Julia Roberts posted a photo with Armani, calling him “A true friend. A Legend.”

• Russell Crowe shared how a single Armani suit started his decades-long loyalty to the brand, saying, “His energy, vision and finesse made a mark acknowledged around the globe.”

• Victoria Beckham wrote, “The fashion world has lost a true legend... I feel honored to have called him a friend.”

• Donatella Versace called Armani “a giant” and declared, “He made history and will be remembered forever.”

Armani’s legacy is more than just fashion. He brought Italian craftsmanship to the global stage, merged elegance with accessibility, and proved that discipline and taste never go out of style. He helped define what luxury meant for millions of people around the world.

In an industry that often favors the loud and fleeting, Giorgio Armani stood for quiet confidence and timeless class. His designs didn’t scream for attention they commanded respect.

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