Milan – Giorgio Armani, the iconic Italian designer who turned modest elegance into a billion-dollar fashion empire, has died at the age of 91, confirmed his fashion house. He passed away at home.
Armani was a well-known figure in the global fashion scene. Just a few months ago, during Milan Fashion Week, he was set to showcase a significant event to mark the 50th anniversary of his brand, Giorgio Armani Fashion House, and it was the first time his designs had been seen publicly in a while.
In the late 1970s, Armani put Italian ready-to-wear clothing on the international radar, creating a relaxed and recognizable silhouette that has influenced fashion for decades. His designs graced everything from executive offices to Hollywood events, characterized by a classic tailored look, soft fabrics, and subtle colors. His stylish black tie ensembles and ornate evening wear often made headlines during award shows.
By the time of his death, Armani’s empire had grown significantly. According to Forbes, it was valued at over $10 billion, encompassing clothing, accessories, and even ventures like restaurants and a basketball team, EA7 Emporio Armani Milan. Since 1998, he opened more than 20 restaurants around the globe.
Armani’s Unique Style
The essence of Armani’s style came from his own identity—recognizable blue eyes, sun-kissed skin, and an ever-present hint of silver hair. His typical outfits included jeans and t-shirts, reflecting a minimalist aesthetic.
He often emphasized practicality in his designs, stating, “I design for real people. There’s no virtue in creating clothes and accessories that are not practical.” His personable demeanor and gentle approach helped elevate his creative vision into a fashion empire.
Born on July 11, 1934, in Piacenza, he initially aspired to be a doctor before starting out in the fashion world by working as a window dresser at a Milan department store. In 1975, he, along with his partner Sergio Galeotti, founded their own menswear line, launching women’s clothing shortly after.
His innovative style gained traction throughout the late ’70s, becoming a sensation in both Hollywood and corporate settings. He famously paired simple t-shirts with tailored jackets, which revolutionized the way people viewed formal attire. For women, the introduction of “power suits” dramatically changed the fashion landscape in the ’80s.
Over time, Armani softened his designs with luxurious materials and vibrant colors, continuously evolving his brand even as critics sometimes labeled his style as overly commercial.
Influence in Hollywood
The film “American Gigolo” in 1980 was a turning point for both Armani and actor Richard Gere, catapulting them to fame. Gere’s striking wardrobe selections made him a Hollywood favorite and elevated Armani’s reputation as a top designer.
Armani’s impact extended to over 200 films and earned him a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2003. The Oscars became a stage for his elegant designs, with numerous celebrities choosing his creations for their red carpet appearances.
His influence on fashion was substantial, but it also reached beyond clothing. At the Guggenheim Museum in New York, the impact of his style was evident in how people interacted with fashion.
Today, the Armani Empire employs around 9,000 people, with women holding half of the executive roles. Recent figures show more than 600 stores worldwide, reflecting the extensive reach of his brand.
Beyond fashion, Armani had his own basketball team, several bars, and restaurants. His leisure time often found him enjoying vacation homes in scenic locales. He also made significant contributions to various charities, particularly those focused on children and the fight against AIDS.
Armani lost Galeotti in 1985 and remained childless, but he formed a close bond with Roberta, the daughter of his late brother, who became a key figure in his public relations efforts.
He had a keen interest in the future of his legacy, looking towards long-time associates for guidance while remaining very much involved until the end.
