MILAN, September 4, 2025 — Giorgio Armani, the Italian designer whose understated elegance redefined both men’s and women’s wear, has died at age 91. According to the Armani Group, he passed peacefully at home, surrounded by loved ones.
A Visionary Who Defined Modern Elegance
Born in Piacenza in 1934, Armani initially pursued medicine before pivoting to fashion—a shift that would ultimately transform the industry. He founded his eponymous fashion house in Milan in 1975, debuting a style marked by soft tailoring and neutral palettes that came to define “quiet luxury” long before the term became fashionable.
Armani’s relaxed yet refined silhouettes—especially the revolutionary power suits of the 1980s—helped professional women project strength with grace. His aesthetic became a red carpet staple, favored by Hollywood stars and dignitaries alike
More Than Fashion: A Lifestyle Empire Built on Independence
Over five decades, Armani expanded his brand into a multibillion-dollar global empire—encompassing Emporio Armani, Armani Privé, fragrances, accessories, interiors, hotels, and even restaurants.
He famously retained full control of his company, rejecting overtures from major fashion conglomerates. His independence was not just business strategy but a core value, one he maintained until his last days.
The Man Behind the Brand
Colleagues remember Armani not just for his vision, but his humility and warmth. Mauro Barbieri, who worked in Armani’s warehouse for 32 years, recalled: “He treated everyone as equals … he would laugh with us and was really down to earth”.
This human touch helped build an enduring brand culture founded on respect, collaboration, and shared passion.
Farewell and Future Stewardship
A public memorial chamber will be open in Milan this weekend, allowing well-wishers to pay their respects, while the designer’s funeral will remain private in keeping with his wishes.
The Armani Group has pledged to carry forward his legacy with care and devotion to the values he championed—quality, elegance, and independence.
Why This Matters
Giorgio Armani wasn’t simply a designer—he shaped modern fashion’s ethos, particularly how women and men present themselves in authoritative settings. His legacy transcends clothing; it’s about how fashion can reflect character, power, and quiet confidence. In an age of fast trends, his work stands as a testament to timeless elegance.
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