Italian Fashion Icon Giorgio Armani Dies Surrounded By Family At 91

The fashion world is mourning one of its greatest icons as Giorgio Armani, the legendary Italian designer who defined modern elegance and built one of the most recognizable fashion empires in the world, has died at the age of 91. Armani’s influence on fashion is immeasurable. His name became synonymous with effortless sophistication, clean lines, and understated luxury. From Hollywood red carpets to the business world, Giorgio Armani suits became a staple for stars, executives, and style-setters alike.

Armani’s fashion house confirmed the news in a statement released Thursday, September 4, revealing the designer “passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loved ones.” According to PEOPLE, the release noted that Armani remained dedicated to his work until the very end, saying he “worked until his final days, dedicating himself to the company, the collections, and the many ongoing and future projects.”

His employees and family members, who described the company as a “family,” also shared an emotional tribute:

“Today, with deep emotion, we feel the void left by the one who founded and nurtured this family with vision, passion, and dedication. But it is precisely in his spirit that we, the employees and the family members who have always worked alongside Mr. Armani, commit to protecting what he built and to carrying his company forward in his memory, with respect, responsibility, and love.”

Born on July 11, 1934, in Piacenza, Italy, to Maria Raimondi and Ugo Armani, Giorgio’s rise to the top was anything but instant. He trained briefly in medicine before pivoting to fashion, first working as a window dresser and later as a designer for Nino Cerruti before launching his own label in 1975. Within a decade, Armani was reshaping global fashion, famously designing Richard Gere’s wardrobe in the 1980 film "American Gigolo," a move that catapulted his brand into pop culture history.

His empire grew to include the haute couture line Armani Privé, the ready-to-wear label Emporio Armani, and the more casual streetwear-focused Armani Exchange.

Beyond clothing, his brand expanded into accessories, fragrances, home goods, and even hotels, cementing Armani as one of the most powerful names in global luxury.

In the months leading up to his passing, Armani’s absence at major fashion events raised questions about his well-being. Back in June, the designer was notably missing from the menswear runway at Milan Fashion Week, a show he had consistently attended for half a century.

According to the Associated Press, Armani was advised to sit out while recovering from a private health issue. Though he wasn’t there in person, insiders shared that he watched the collection unfold via live stream.

News of Armani’s death has sparked an outpouring of emotion across social media, with fans, fashion insiders, and celebrities paying tribute to the man who reshaped style for generations.

“Giorgio remains one of my favorite tailors. May he rest in peace,” wrote singer Canelle Citadelle.

Journalist Michael de Waal-Montgomery praised Armani’s wide-reaching influence, tweeting, “From Hollywood screens to city streets, Armani’s vision touched every corner of culture. The world of fashion won’t be the same without him.”

Others shared more personal reflections. “The fabulous Giorgio Armani was my favorite designer,” wrote influencer Artemis, while Barbara Brent called him “one of my top three.”

Fans also expressed a deep sense of loss. “What an icon. I’m sad. And I can’t explain it. It’s not like I knew him. I feel for his family and friends,” one user wrote.

For nearly half a century, Armani embodied elegance and restraint in an industry often obsessed with excess. His passing leaves a massive void in the fashion world, but his legacy in design, vision, and innovation will continue to shape the industry for generations to come.

Rest in peace.