Giorgio Armani dies at the age of 91 in Milan, Italy. {Photo Source: Reuters}
Giorgio Armani, the famous Italian fashion designer, has died at the age of 91 in Milan, Italy. He established a global luxury empire and inspired modern fashion for almost 50 years with his ageless, elegant, and simple designs, transforming the fashion industry. Many people are wondering about the future of his brand and who will take over next.
Giorgio Armani was a legendary Italian fashion designer and the founder of the Armani empire. Born in 1934 in Piacenza, Italy, he became famous for elegant suits, power jackets, and luxury collections. He also made a mark in Hollywood, dressing stars for movies and red carpets.
Giorgio Armani passed away on September 4, 2025. His health had been declining, keeping him away from Milan’s fashion events, including his first missed Milan Men’s Fashion Week in June. The Armani Group called him the “creator, founder, and tireless driving force” behind the brand.
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A public mourning chamber will be held in Milan over the weekend, followed by a private funeral. Fans, colleagues, and fashion icons are expected to pay their respects to honour his contributions.
Armani started his fashion house in 1975 and grew it into a global luxury empire worth about €2.3 billion a year. The brand includes high-end fashion, everyday wear, accessories, perfumes, and home decor through labels like Giorgio Armani, Emporio Armani, Armani Privé, and Armani Exchange.
He oversaw designs, marketing, and brand decisions personally. His work not only shaped fashion trends but also set high standards for luxury and style worldwide.
Before his death, Armani had planned for a smooth transition of leadership. He wanted trusted collaborators and family members to continue his legacy.
Pantaleo “Leo” Dell’Orco, head of men’s design and one of Armani’s closest associates, is expected to take a leading role in running the brand. Armani had stressed that keeping the brand true to its values and vision was very important.
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Keeping Armani's focus on independence, style, and quality is key for the brand's future. The brand strives to preserve its own style and upscale image despite shifting fashion trends.
It is expected that Armani's design aesthetic would survive under Dell’Orco and other trusted executives. Even though the brand will face competition from firms like LVMH and Kering, Armani's success will hinge on its capacity to maintain its distinctive aesthetic while adjusting to shifting consumer preferences.
