Giorgio Armani, the revolutionary designer long hailed by the press as “Re Giorgio” – “King Giorgio”, has passed away in Milan.

“With infinite sorrow, the Armani Group announces the passing of its creator, founder, and tireless driving force: Giorgio Armani,” a statement from the fashion house read. “Il Signor Armani, as he was always respectfully and admiringly 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 and future projects.” 

It was announced that the funeral chamber will be open from Saturday to Sunday, between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m., at Via Bergognone 59 inside the Armani/Teatro in Milan. In line with Mr. Armani’s explicit wishes, the funeral will be held privately.

Giorgio Armani, the mastermind behind his multibillion-dollar brand, served as chairman, chief executive officer and creative director of the house. He had been preparing to celebrate the brand's 50th anniversary with a fashion show and party later this month.

Born on 11 July 1934 in Piacenza, Italy. Giorgio Armani’s path to fashion was anything but conventional. He originally pursued medicine, studying at university for three years before leaving to complete his two years of compulsory military service. Once he returned, he found work at a Milan department store as a window dresser, later rising to the position of buyer. Late in the mid-1960s, Armani ventured into design, working with the stylist Nino Cerruti,  an experience that would lay the foundations for his own revolutionary vision of fashion.

In 1975, Armani launched his label. The brand quickly became a success, driven by his groundbreaking approach to menswear. He created a new signature style that revolutionised the shape of fashion for men and women for decades to come.

Armani’s vision of elegance, rooted in curiosity and disciplined rigour, shaped more than clothing. It influenced design, architecture, and hospitality, always anchored in a special relationship with people and Milan, his beloved city. His independence of thought and integrity made Giorgio Armani a singular global brand spanning five decades.

Armani’s influence extended powerfully into cinema. He created Richard Gere’s iconic wardrobe in the 1980 classic American Gigolò, a collaboration that cemented his place in Hollywood, and went on to design for more than 30 films, including Cate Blanchett’s Truth and Jodie Foster’s Elysium. His work became highly sought after as a result, and he became the go-to for Hollywood A-Listers—including George Clooney, Michelle Pfeiffer, Cate Blanchett, and Julia Roberts—for red carpet events.

Also, many A-listers have entrusted Armani with their wedding day, among them Katie Holmes Beatrice Casiraghi, and Princess Charlene of Monaco, whose off-white gown remains a vision of regal elegance. 

We cannot forget his 90th birthday celebration last year in New York, a dazzling tribute to his life and influence. With 90 looks, each marking a year of his extraordinary journey, and 600 guests gathered in his honour.