The global fashion community is mourning the loss of Giorgio Armani, the celebrated Italian designer, who passed away on September 4, 2025, at the age of 91. Renowned for his minimalist aesthetic, refined tailoring, and an empire that spanned decades, Armani left an indelible mark on both menswear and womenswear.
Armani's journey in fashion began in Milan. After working as a window dresser, he founded his eponymous fashion house in 1975 with his partner Sergio Galeotti. He revolutionized professional attire with his unstructured jackets and a sophisticated, muted color palette, a stark contrast to the more rigid styles that preceded them. This innovative approach to tailoring not only redefined power dressing for a generation but also significantly influenced Hollywood wardrobes. The 1980 film "American Gigolo," starring Richard Gere in Armani's creations, is often cited as a pivotal moment, showcasing the designer's ability to blend fashion with cinematic storytelling and cementing his status in popular culture.
His influence extended beyond the runway into the broader lifestyle landscape. The Armani empire grew to encompass accessories, beauty products, home furnishings, and luxury hospitality with Armani Hotels & Resorts. By 2001, he was recognized as the most successful designer of Italian origin, a testament to his vision and business acumen. At the time of his death, his empire was valued at over $12.1 billion, with annual revenues reported to be around €2.3 billion ($2.7 billion).
Armani's commitment to maintaining independence, famously turning down offers from luxury conglomerates like LVMH, allowed him to preserve creative and operational control throughout his career. Industry leaders and dignitaries have shared their tributes, acknowledging Armani as a monumental figure who elevated Italian creativity and set a benchmark for timeless elegance. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni lauded him as a symbol of the best of Italy, stating, "With his elegance, sobriety and creativity, he was able to bring luster to Italian fashion and inspire the entire world."
His impact on the red carpet was so profound that by 1990, the Oscars were being referred to as the "Armani Awards," with stars consistently choosing his designs for major events. This era saw him dressing everyone from Diane Keaton, who wore an Armani men's jacket to the Oscars in 1978, to Michelle Pfeiffer, whose appearances in the late 1980s and 1990s redefined power dressing for women. Armani's dedication extended to humanitarian causes, including support for refugees and AIDS awareness. He also made significant contributions to the sports world, designing uniforms for Italian Olympic teams and collaborating with football clubs like Juventus and Napoli, transforming the football jersey into a symbol of style. His legacy is one of enduring elegance, entrepreneurial spirit, and a profound understanding of how fashion can shape culture and inspire individuals worldwide.