Giorgio Armani (Italian pronunciation: [ˈdʒordʒo arˈmaːni]; 11 July 1934 – 4 September 2025) was an Italian fashion designer and the founder of the eponymous Armani empire. Celebrated for revolutionising fashion with his minimalist elegance, Armani built one of the most powerful independent luxury brands in the world, spanning clothing, accessories, beauty, sports, and hotels. At the time of his death, his empire was valued at more than $12.1 billion.
Early Life
Giorgio Armani was born in Piacenza, northern Italy, to Ugo Armani, an accountant, and Maria Raimondi. He grew up with his siblings Sergio and Rosanna during the hardships of World War II. A childhood accident involving an unexploded artillery shell left him severely burned and instilled in him resilience that would later define his career.
Initially drawn to medicine, Armani studied at the University of Milan before leaving to serve in the army. Assigned to a military hospital in Verona, he eventually abandoned medicine in favor of a career in design.
Early Career (1957–1974)
Armani’s entry into fashion began at La Rinascente, Milan’s leading department store, where he worked as a window dresser and menswear salesman. By the 1960s, he was designing for Nino Cerruti at Cerruti 1881 while freelancing for other brands, gaining deep expertise in fabrics and tailoring.
In 1966, he met Sergio Galeotti, his lifelong partner, who encouraged him to open a design office in Milan. Their collaboration attracted attention, particularly after Armani’s runway presentations in Florence’s Sala Bianca, which cemented his reputation as a designer with a unique vision.
Founding the Armani Brand (1975–1983)
On 24 July 1975, Armani and Galeotti founded Giorgio Armani S.p.A. in Milan. His debut menswear and womenswear collections introduced unstructured tailoring, soft jackets, and clean silhouettes that became signatures of his style.
The late 1970s and 1980s marked Armani’s rise to global fame. His designs embodied the new era of professional ambition, creating the iconic “power suit”. Hollywood embraced his work—most famously, Richard Gere’s wardrobe in American Gigolo (1980), which brought Giorgio Armani to international attention. Over time, Armani designed costumes for more than 100 films, including The Untouchables (1987).
Global Expansion
By the 1980s and 1990s, Giorgio Armani expanded his empire to include Emporio Armani, Armani Jeans, Armani Junior, and Armani Exchange. Strategic partnerships, such as his deal with L’Oréal for fragrances and cosmetics, helped diversify the brand.
He also ventured into lifestyle and hospitality: in 2010, the Armani Hotel opened in Dubai’s Burj Khalifa, featuring interiors by Armani/Casa. Armani restaurants, cafés, and home décor collections followed, reinforcing the brand’s global presence.
By the 2000s, Armani’s company had become a symbol of Italian independence in an industry dominated by conglomerates. Unlike many rivals, he retained full control of his empire, ensuring his vision remained intact.
Later Career and Innovation (2008–2025)
Armani remained ahead of his time, becoming the first major designer to ban underweight models in 2007 and the first to livestream a haute couture show online. He also embraced sustainability, joining the Green Carpet Challenge in 2011 to highlight eco-conscious design.
In 2019, Armani introduced his first fine jewelry collection, later worn by stars like Sophia Loren and Brie Larson. He continued to design for red carpets and celebrities including Lady Gaga, expanding his influence into music and pop culture.
Armani was also deeply invested in sports, owning the basketball team Olimpia Milano, designing Italy’s Olympic uniforms, and partnering with Scuderia Ferrari as an official supplier.
Personal Life
Giorgio Armani was famously private. He had relationships with both men and women but was most closely associated with Sergio Galeotti, who died of AIDS-related complications in 1985. Armani later described Galeotti’s loss as his greatest personal and professional failure.
Despite his fortune, Armani led a disciplined life, often seen in his signature navy t-shirt and jeans. He spent much of his free time sailing on his 60-metre yacht.
Death and Legacy
Armani missed Milan Fashion Week in June 2025 due to health concerns and was preparing to celebrate the 50th anniversary of his fashion house when he died at his home in Milan on 4 September 2025, at the age of 91.
Tributes poured in worldwide. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni hailed him as “a symbol of the best of Italy,” while French luxury magnate Bernard Arnault praised his unique vision of Italian elegance.
Throughout his career, Giorgio Armani was credited with revolutionising fashion by softening traditional tailoring, redefining the suit, and empowering women in the workplace. He pioneered red-carpet fashion and bridged the worlds of couture, cinema, and art.
From his Guggenheim retrospective in 2000 to being called “Fashion’s Master of the Power Suit” by The New York Times, Armani’s influence remains unparalleled. Vogue once declared him “the most successful designer of Italian origin,” a testament to his global impact.
Honored with the Legion of Honour in France and Italy’s Knight Grand Cross, Giorgio Armani leaves behind more than a fashion brand—he leaves a cultural legacy built on elegance, discipline, and timeless style.
❓ FAQs About Giorgio Armani
Q1. Who was Giorgio Armani?
Giorgio Armani was an Italian fashion designer and the founder of the Armani empire, known for revolutionizing tailoring with minimalist elegance and creating the iconic “power suit.”
Q2. When did Giorgio Armani die?
Giorgio Armani died on 4 September 2025 at the age of 91, just weeks before celebrating the 50th anniversary of his fashion house.
Q3. What is Giorgio Armani famous for?
Giorgio Armani is famous for redefining modern fashion with clean, unstructured suits, elegant evening wear, and red-carpet glamour. He also pioneered designer branding in lifestyle, hotels, and cosmetics.
Q4. What brands are under Giorgio Armani?
The Armani empire includes several labels such as Giorgio Armani, Emporio Armani, Armani Exchange, Armani/Casa, Armani Hotels, and Armani Beauty.
Conclusion
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About the Author
Tanvir Kaur is a passionate fashion and lifestyle blogger who curates trends that help you look and feel your best—whether you’re celebrating festive occasions or upgrading your everyday wardrobe. From skincare tips to style inspiration, she blends elegance with practicality, bringing freshness to every look. Tune in to discover the latest in fashion, beauty, and lifestyle, all thoughtfully crafted to elevate your confidence.
