Giorgio Armani, the billionaire Italian designer behind one of the world’s most iconic fashion houses, has passed away at the age of 91.

The Armani Group confirmed his death on Thursday, September 4, at his home in Milan, sharing the news on social media.

“With infinite sorrow, the Armani group announces the passing of its creator, founder and tireless driving force: Giorgio Armani,” the house announced in an Instagram post.

“Il Signor Armani, as he was always respectfully and admirably called by employees and collaborators, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loved ones. Indefatigable to the end, he worked until his final days, dedicating himself to the company, the collections, and the many ongoing future projects.”

HISTORY OF GIORGIO ARMANI

Giorgio Armani founded his eponymous fashion company in 1975, growing it into a global empire spanning music, sports, and luxury hotels. Widely regarded as the most successful Italian designer, he was credited with pioneering red-carpet fashion.

As of 2024, Giorgio Armani was one of the richest LGBTQ+ billionaires in the world, with an estimated net worth of $12.4 billion.

“The world lost a giant today,” fellow designer Donatella Versace wrote in tribute. “He made history and will be remembered forever.”

Earlier this year, Giorgio Armani missed Milan Fashion Week in June for the first time in his career due to health reasons, though he had planned to celebrate his brand’s 50th anniversary during the upcoming September edition.

“In this company, we have always felt like part of a family. Today, with deep emotion, we feel the void left by the one who founded and nurtured this family with vision, passion and dedication,” the company’s statement read.

“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.”