Italian fashion icon Giorgio Armani dies at 91

Legendary Italian designer Giorgio Armani, the visionary behind one of the world’s most prestigious fashion empires, has died at the age of 91, his company announced on Thursday.

“With infinite sorrow, the Armani Group announces the passing of its creator, founder, and tireless driving force: Giorgio Armani,” the company said, adding that he passed away peacefully “surrounded by his loved ones.”

Known globally as a pioneer of modern luxury fashion, Armani founded his label in Milan in 1975, quickly rising to prominence and dressing some of the biggest names in entertainment and culture.

Over the decades, he expanded his brand into Emporio Armani, luxury hotels, and a wide range of lifestyle ventures, cementing his influence as a cultural icon.

The company said Armani remained deeply involved in the business until his final days, personally overseeing collections and projects. His funeral will be private, but a funeral chamber will be open for public tributes in Milan on Saturday and Sunday.

Armani, who had recently faced health challenges, cancelled his menswear show in Milan earlier this year and missed the Paris Armani Privé show for the first time in July, on doctors’ advice. “I followed and oversaw every aspect of the show remotely,” he had said at the time.

Tributes have poured in from around the world. Italy’s Culture Minister Alessandro Giuli praised Armani as “a leading figure in Italian culture, who transformed elegance into a universal language.”

He added, “His understated and innovative style redefined the relationship between fashion, cinema, and society, leaving an indelible mark on contemporary culture.”

Armani’s passing comes just weeks before celebrations were set to mark the 50th anniversary of his iconic label, which continues to symbolize timeless elegance and Italian craftsmanship.