Fashion Icon Giorgio Armani Dies aged 91
The world of fashion mourns the loss of one of its greatest visionaries. On Thursday 4th September 2025, Giorgio Armani, fondly known as “Re Giorgio” (King Giorgio), passed away at the age of 91, his fashion house confirmed. The designer died peacefully at home in Milan, surrounded by loved ones.
Born on 11 July 1934 in Piacenza, Italy, Armani initially pursued medical studies before shifting course to fashion, landing a key role at La Rinascente in Milan and later designing for Nino Cerruti. In 1975, he founded his eponymous label with partner Sergio Galeotti, laying the foundation for a modern empire of unparalleled taste and vision.
Armani redefined the rigid power suit of the 1970s with soft-shouldered tailoring and relaxed silhouettes, becoming a favorite of Hollywood and a symbol of empowered femininity. His creations graced legends from Richard Gere in American Gigolo to the red carpets of celebrities worldwide. Under his unerring guidance, the Armani Group grew into a multibillion-euro empire spanning couture, ready-to-wear, accessories, hospitality, and beyond, while remaining privately held and uniquely Armani in spirit.
Armani had been ill and notably absent from Milan Men’s Fashion Week in June 2025, an unprecedented move for the designer who had attended every show for decades. Just days before his passing, he shared a rare personal reflection in an interview: his only regret was having devoted too much time to work at the expense of loved ones. He also outlined a succession plan, naming close collaborators and family members as his natural legacy bearers.
His passing prompted a wave of heartfelt tributes. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni noted, “With his elegance, sobriety and creativity… he was able to bring luster to Italian fashion and inspire the entire world.” Industry titans echoed that sentiment. Martin Scorsese called him “a real artist… genuinely elegant… for people to wear.” Valentino Garavani paid homage to a friend and trailblazer, while Donatella Versace lamented, “The world has lost a giant today.” Bernard Arnault of LVMH honored Armani’s global style and enduring friendship. Designers such as Miuccia Prada and Raf Simons praised his timeless influence. Celebrities and athletes also weighed in: Julia Roberts mourned, “A true friend. A legend,” Cindy Crawford remembered him as “a true master of his craft,” and others including Charles Leclerc and Russell Crowe expressed personal gratitude and grief.
Armani’s deep ties to Milan were matched by global influences, particularly his creative connection to India, which inspired designs and collaborative collections spanning decades. In recognition of his contributions, Milan honored him with a public funeral chamber at the Armani/Teatro on 6–7 September, followed by a private service at his own request. Employees remembered him as nurturing and egalitarian, saying, “In this company, we have always felt like part of a family,” a testament to his leadership style characterized by warmth and meticulous care.
Over fifty years, Giorgio Armani crafted more than fashion, he forged a lifestyle rooted in minimalist elegance, functionality, and sophisticated restraint. His legacy extends beyond couture: museums, hospitality, sports, fragrances, and more reflect his enduring worldview. As the industry transitions, Armani’s vision remains embedded in contemporary aesthetics and ongoing design philosophy. His contributions helped shape not just wardrobes, but also the essence of modern, global elegance.
