Renowned fashion designer Giorgio Armani passes away at the age of 91.
Giorgio Armani, the visionary behind the multi-billion-dollar fashion empire that bears his name, has passed away at the age of 91. The news of his demise was confirmed by his close associates, leaving the fashion world in mourning.
Armani was born on July 11, 1934, in Piacenza, in the Emilia-Romagna region of northern Italy. After World War II, his family moved to Milan, where the company's headquarters remain today. Despite having no formal education or degree in his field, Armani's passion for fashion was evident from an early age.
Armani began his career in the fashion world in the 1960s as a window dresser and buyer for the Italian department store chain La Rinascente. His first designs were created for the company of Italian master Nino Cerruti. In 1975, he partnered with fellow Italian Sergio Galeotti, and together they founded the Giorgio Armani SpA company. Galeotti handled the financial aspects until his early death in 1985, since then Armani has been the sole CEO of the fashion empire.
Armani was one of the most influential fashion designers in the world, known for his minimalist cuts in subdued colors for menswear and a staple in women's fashion. He allowed the T-shirt to be worn with a suit, another Armani revolution. In the 1980s, Armani became known as the man who reinvented the men's jacket, softening the suit fabrics and making them more fluid and relaxed.
Armani's impact on the fashion industry is immeasurable. He was a friend, not a rival, to Valentino Garavani, behind the Valentino brand. Upon hearing the news of Armani's death, Garavani bowed down to his immense talent. Donatella Versace also expressed her sorrow, calling Armani a "giant" who wrote history and will be forever remembered. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni paid tribute to Armani, stating that he brought glory to Italian fashion and inspired the whole world.
Former Vogue editor-in-chief Anna Wintour praised Armani's work, stating that his personality and vision were so clear that his work was instantly recognizable wherever it was found. Armani dressed Hollywood stars in exquisite one-of-a-kind pieces and also sold perfume and jeans in large quantities in his stores. With an estimated fortune of over eleven billion euros, Armani never took his corporation public and turned down all takeover offers.
Today, the Armani corporation employs around 8,700 people, has over 2,000 stores, often in prime locations, and a dozen factories across the globe. Armani's coffin will be on display at his Milan fashion house from Saturday, with a private funeral ceremony held at his request. Milan's mayor, Giuseppe Sala, has declared Monday a day of mourning in the city.
Armani will be remembered not only for his groundbreaking designs but also for his dedication and passion for his work. He continued to work until his last days, surrounded by loved ones. His legacy will live on in the fashion industry, inspiring future designers and continuing to shape the world of fashion.
