Italian fashion designer Giorgio Armani has died at 91

Giorgio Armani poses with models before presenting his Spring Summer 2025 collection in New York City, US, October 17, 2024

Italian designer Giorgio Armani, founder of the Armani Group and one of the biggest names in the world of fashion, has died at the age of 91, the company said on Thursday.

“With infinite sorrow, the Armani Group announces the passing of its creator, founder, and tireless driving force: Giorgio Armani,” the Italian luxury brand Armani Group said in a statement posted on its official Instagram account.

Armani, as he was always respectfully and admiringly called by employees and collaborators, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loved ones, it said.

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 statement said.

Armani, who was 91, was synonymous with modern Italian style and elegance. He combined the flair of the designer with the acumen of a businessman, running a company that turned over some 2.3 billion euros ($2.7 billion) a year, according to the Reuters’ Thursday report.

Known as “Re Giorgio” – King Giorgio – the designer was known for overseeing every detail of his collection and every aspect of his business, from advertising to fixing models’ hair as they head out on to the runway, the Reuters said.

A funeral chamber will be set up on Saturday and Sunday in Milan, the company said.