Giorgio Armani, Iconic Italian Fashion Designer and Billionaire Brand Owner, Dies at 91

Armani reimagined and modernized women's and men's suits

Legendary Italian fashion designer and billionaire Giorgio Armani has died at the age of 91. Widely regarded as the epitome of Italian style and elegance, Armani transformed men’s and women’s fashion with his modern vision of tailoring and built one of the world’s most influential luxury empires.

His brand, founded in 1975 with his late partner Sergio Galeotti, grew far beyond clothing to include beauty, fragrance, music, sport, and luxury hotels, generating more than £2 billion annually. Armani remained deeply involved in the business until his final days, with his company confirming that he “worked until his final days, dedicating himself to the company, the collections and the many ongoing future projects.” The statement described him as “indefatigable to the end,” driven by curiosity and a deep commitment to people and the present.

Armani was considered a pioneer who elevated red carpet fashion to new heights. He famously dressed Hollywood stars, including Julia Roberts, Cate Blanchett, and Zendaya, for major events such as the Oscars, designed stage outfits for Lady Gaga, and created costumes for films including American Gigolo and The Wolf of Wall Street. His reputation as “a true gentleman” and “titan of the industry” was praised across the fashion world.

Giorgio Armani with Latvian model Agnes Zogla at his final runway show in January 2025

Tributes poured in from global figures. Donatella Versace called him a “giant” who “made history and will be remembered forever.” Russell Crowe described Armani as a man who “made a mark acknowledged around the globe” and supported him during significant moments in his life. Julia Roberts, sharing a picture of herself with Armani, called him “a true friend, a legend.” British designer Paul Smith highlighted Armani’s independence and longevity, calling him “an enormous source of strength and creativity.” Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said Armani was “an icon, a tireless worker, a symbol of the best of Italy.”

Armani was also a trailblazer in ethics, becoming the first designer to ban underweight models from his runway after the 2006 death of Ana Carolina Reston from anorexia. His influence stretched across decades: in the 1980s, he redefined power dressing for women, creating suits that mirrored the radical impact of Chanel, while also deconstructing men’s tailoring, shaping how modern suits are designed.

Giorgio Armani was seen as a pioneer of suit tailoring for men and women

Even in his 10th decade, Armani remained active, directing shows in Paris and Milan. His March 2025 collection was politically charged, with the designer saying he wanted to “imagine new harmony” for a divided world. Concerns about his health arose earlier this year when he missed Milan Fashion Week, though he continued working remotely.

Born in 1934, Armani originally studied medicine before turning to fashion in the 1960s. Despite criticism during his career, including controversial remarks in 2015 and a financial settlement with Italian tax authorities in 2014, his influence on style remained unparalleled.

Beyond fashion, Armani was a passionate sports supporter. He owned the Olimpia Milano basketball team, partnered with Ferrari’s F1 team, and was a devoted fan of Inter Milan. Ferrari driver Charles Leclerc said it was “a great honor” to have met and worked with him. Armani was also awarded the French Legion of Honour and the Italian Order of Merit for Labour for his contributions to fashion.

Giorgio Armani pictured in 1979 with his pets

Armani’s timeless style, defined by refined silhouettes and immaculate tailoring, ensured his name became synonymous with elegance worldwide. His legacy will continue to shape the fashion industry for generations.