The fashion world is mourning the loss of Giorgio Armani, the visionary Italian designer who redefined elegance and power dressing. Born on 11 July 1934 in Piacenza, Italy, Armani passed away peacefully on 4 September 2025, at the age of 91. For half a century, he remained one of the most influential names in global fashion, transforming men’s and women’s style with his signature minimalist designs.
Starting his company in 1975 with business partner Sergio Galeotti, Armani built an empire that spanned clothing, hotels, perfumes, and even sports. Known as “Re Giorgio” (King Giorgio) in Italy, he kept complete ownership of his brand, a rare feat in the modern fashion industry. At the time of his passing, Forbes valued his net worth at $12.1 billion, making him one of the wealthiest designers in the world.
Beyond wealth and fame, Armani’s true legacy lies in his timeless creations—suits that redefined Hollywood glamour, pantsuits that empowered women in the workplace, and designs that remain iconic in the vintage fashion market even today.
10 Rare Facts About Giorgio Armani
- Doctor to Designer – Armani studied medicine for two years before leaving to pursue photography and fashion.
- Hollywood Breakthrough – His suits for Richard Gere in American Gigolo (1980) revolutionized men’s fashion worldwide.
- Always His Own Boss – He was the sole shareholder of Armani Group, refusing to sell to luxury conglomerates.
- Beyond Fashion – Expanded into hotels, restaurants, cosmetics, perfumes, and interior design.
- “King Giorgio” – Admired globally, yet maintained a private life with little personal controversy.
- Power Dressing Pioneer – Popularized women’s pantsuits, making professional attire both elegant and authoritative.
- Basketball Enthusiast – Sponsored and designed uniforms for Italy’s Olimpia Milano basketball team.
- 50 Years on Top – Led Armani for five decades, keeping the brand’s value at around €10 billion in 2025.
- Timeless Vintage Appeal – Armani suits from the 1980s–90s remain prized in second-hand fashion markets.
- Sergio’s Inspiration – After co-founder Sergio Galeotti’s death in 1985, Armani continued alone but credited him as his lifelong inspiration.