Giorgio Armani, the legendary Italian designer and founder of the Armani Group, has passed away at the age of 90, the company announced on Friday.
Widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in global fashion, Armani was actively involved in the business and design process until his final days. “Indefatigable to the end, he worked until his final days, dedicating himself to the company, the collections, and the many ongoing and future projects,” the Armani Group said in a statement.
Armani, often addressed as Il Signor Armani by employees and collaborators, built a fashion empire over five decades, extending his minimalist yet luxurious design vision into clothing, accessories, lifestyle, and beyond. Known for championing independence of thought and action, he shaped Armani into one of the world’s most recognisable luxury brands, synonymous with understated elegance.
The group said that Armani’s family and long-time employees would continue to carry forward his legacy and values. “Today, with deep emotion, we feel the void left by the one who founded and nurtured this family with vision, passion, and dedication. But it is precisely in his spirit that we commit to protecting what he built and to carrying his company forward,” the statement added.
The funeral chamber will be open to the public in Milan at Armani/Teatro on September 6-7, while the funeral itself will be held privately in accordance with Armani’s wishes.