End of an Era: Fashion icon, Giorgio Armani, dies at 91

Italian fashion icon Giorgio Armani has died at 91, his company confirmed in an Instagram post on Thursday. His passing marks the end of an era.

The Armani Group wrote: “With infinite condolences, the Armani group announces the passing of its inventor, founder and tireless engine: Giorgio Armani.”

It added: “Mr Armani, as he was respectfully called by employees and collaborators, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loved ones.”

Armani worked tirelessly until his final days, dedicating himself to the company, his collections and numerous innovative projects in progress and yet to come.

The statement noted that over the years, he created a vision that extended beyond fashion, shaping lifestyles with extraordinary clarity, precision and forward-looking creativity.

He was described as being driven by inexhaustible curiosity and attentiveness, building an open dialogue with the public and establishing himself as a respected global figure.

Armani was renowned for his high-end lifestyle and groundbreaking contributions to international fashion, particularly red-carpet and Hollywood glamour.

Born in Piacenza, northern Italy, in 1934, Armani initially studied medicine before pursuing design, eventually transforming global fashion with his minimalist, elegant approach.

He established his fashion house in Milan in 1975. It quickly rose to prominence, setting new standards for understated sophistication and redefining modern tailoring.

Armani’s label expanded across clothing, accessories, perfumes, and interior design, later branching into music, sports sponsorships, restaurants, and luxury hotels under the Armani brand.

He dressed countless celebrities, including Richard Gere in American Gigolo, and became a preferred designer for stars at the Oscars, Cannes and other red-carpet events.

Armani’s designs were distinguished by clean lines, neutral colours and timeless elegance, which revolutionised the fashion industry in the late 20th century.

Throughout his career, Armani remained fiercely independent, refusing buyouts and keeping his empire under private control, a rarity in the world of high fashion.

Beyond fashion, he was a philanthropist, supporting health, education and humanitarian causes, while also advocating for Italian craftsmanship on the global stage.

Tributes have poured in from across the fashion industry, with many hailing Armani as a visionary who influenced generations of designers and reshaped global style.