Giorgio Armani, the undisputed icon of Italian fashion, passed away at 91. He was 91 years old. This was confirmed by the press release of his group: «With infinite condolence, the Armani group announces the disappearance of its creator, founder and tireless engine. Mr. Armani, as has always been called with respect and admiration by employees and collaborators, has passed away serenely, surrounded by his loved ones. Tireless, he has worked until the last few days ».
Childhood and training
Giorgio Armani was born on 11 July 1934 in Piacenza, in a middle class family. After attending the scientific high school in his city, he moved to Milan, where he graduated and enrolled in the medical faculty. After three years of studies, he decides to stop the university course, also due to mandatory military service.
Entry into the world of fashion
After the military service, Armani begins to work as a windowist in department stores La Rinascente, and then became buyer. His creative talent leads him to collaborate as a freelance designer for various companies. In 1965 he joined the staff of Nino Cerruti, working on the Hitman men’s line, and accumulates an important experience in clothing design.
The birth of the Armani brand
In 1975, together with Sergio Galeotti he founded Giorgio Armani Spa The first men’s collection debuts in spring-summer 1976. The success is immediate and leads to the rapid expansion of the brand, with the birth of lines such as Emporio Armani, Armani Jeans, Armani Junior, Armani Privé and other segments ranging from perfumes to accessories, up to the interior design and the hottellerie.
Global success
In the 1980s Armani revolutionized the male and female wardrobe with the introduction of the destructured suit: fluid lines, soft fabrics, minimal elegance. It becomes famous also thanks to the cinema: in the film American Gigolo (1980), Richard Gere wears Armani signed clothes, which will become a symbol of an iconic and recognizable style all over the world.
Armani is one of the few stylists to maintain the independent control of its company, choosing an entrepreneurial model based on the autonomy and personal vision of the brand.
Awards and influence
During his career he has received numerous prizes and honors, including international awards and honorary qualifications. His work was celebrated in important exhibitions, such as the retrospective at the Guggenheim Museum in New York.
He also dressed in Italian Olympic athletes and has collaborated with technological companies to develop luxury products in the lifestyle sector.
Present and future
In 2024 Armani celebrated 50 years of career, actively guiding his company, which reached a turnover of more than 2 billion euros. The same year he celebrated his 90th birthday. Despite some health problems in 2025, he continued to work and expressed his will to return to the fashion shows, confirming his presence at Milan Fashion Week.
