Giorgio Armani, the iconic Italian fashion designer who revolutionized menswear and built a global luxury empire, passed away on September 4, 2025, at his home in Milan, Italy, at the age of 91. His death marks the end of an era in fashion, leaving behind a legacy of minimalist sophistication that influenced generations. Born during a tumultuous period in Italy, Armani’s journey from humble beginnings to becoming one of the wealthiest and most acclaimed designers in the world is a testament to his vision, resilience, and unwavering commitment to elegance. May he rest in peace.
Early Life and Formative Years
Giorgio Armani was born on July 11, 1934, in Piacenza, Italy, to Ugo Armani, an accountant, and Maria Raimondi. He grew up alongside an older brother, Sergio, and a younger sister, Rosanna, in a family that faced the hardships of World War II. As a child, Armani endured poverty and a traumatic incident when a live mine exploded near him, causing severe burns and nearly blinding him. Initially drawn to medicine, he enrolled in the University of Milan’s medical department in 1953 but left after three years. Instead, he joined the Italian Army, serving at the Military Hospital in Verona, where exposure to theater at the Verona Arena sparked his interest in a creative career.
Entry into Fashion and Early Career
Armani’s foray into fashion began in 1957 when he worked as a window dresser and sales clerk at La Rinascente department store in Milan. There, he gained valuable experience in menswear and marketing, including showcasing designs from brands like Marimekko. By the mid-1960s, he had joined Nino Cerruti’s company, where he designed menswear and freelanced for other manufacturers. A pivotal moment came in the late 1960s when he met Sergio Galeotti, who would become both his life partner and business collaborator. In 1973, encouraged by Galeotti, Armani opened a design office in Milan and began freelancing for prominent fashion houses.
Founding Giorgio Armani S.p.A. and Rise to Fame
On July 24, 1975, Armani and Galeotti founded Giorgio Armani S.p.A., launching their first men’s and women’s ready-to-wear collections for Spring/Summer 1976. Armani’s innovative approach—featuring deconstructed silhouettes, soft jackets, and unstructured suits—redefined elegance, blending masculinity and femininity into a modern, sophisticated aesthetic. By 1978, he had forged key manufacturing partnerships, such as with Gruppo Finanzario Tessile (GFT), and expanded into lines like G.A. Le Collezioni, Armani Underwear, Armani Junior, Armani Jeans, and Emporio Armani.
His influence extended beyond clothing. In the early 1980s, a collaboration with L’Oréal birthed Armani Beauty, encompassing perfumes and cosmetics. Armani’s Hollywood breakthrough came with costume design for the 1980 film American Gigolo, starring Richard Gere, which popularized his style globally. He contributed to over 100 films, including The Untouchables (1987), cementing his role in red-carpet fashion. By 2001, he was hailed as the most successful Italian designer, with his empire spanning music, sports, and luxury hotels.
Expansions, Ventures, and Social Impact
Armani’s brand diversified extensively. In 1991, he launched A/X Armani Exchange for casual wear. He entered the Asian market with stores in Beijing (1998) and Shanghai (2004), aiming for 40 locations by 2011. In hospitality, the Armani Hotel Collection debuted with a 2005 deal with Emaar Properties, opening the first hotel in Dubai’s Burj Khalifa in 2010.
Beyond business, Armani was involved in sports as president of Olimpia Milano basketball team and designed uniforms for teams like the England national football team and Italy’s Olympic delegations. He launched the EA7 sportswear line and sponsored Scuderia Ferrari in 2021. Socially conscious, he banned models with a BMI under 18 in 2007 after a model’s death and promoted sustainable fashion through initiatives like the Green Carpet Challenge in 2011. In 2019, he debuted a fine jewelry collection, with the 2022 “Josephine” line worn by stars like Sophia Loren and Brie Larson.
By 2017, his annual turnover reached $1.6 billion, with a personal fortune of $8.1 billion. At the time of his passing, his empire was valued at over $9 billion.
Personal Life
Armani maintained a private life, acknowledging relationships with both men and women. His deepest bond was with Sergio Galeotti, who died from AIDS-related complications in 1985—a loss Armani described as his greatest personal and professional regret. In leisure, he enjoyed sailing on his over-60-meter yacht.
Legacy and Final Days
Giorgio Armani’s death on September 4, 2025, came just a day before this article’s publication, closing a chapter on one of fashion’s titans. His contributions reshaped the industry, emphasizing timeless style over fleeting trends. As tributes pour in from around the world, Armani’s empire continues to thrive, ensuring his vision endures. May he rest in peace.
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