Giorgio Armani, the legendary Italian fashion designer whose minimalist aesthetic redefined modern elegance, died on September 4, 2025, in Milan at the age of 91. The Armani Group announced his passing, noting that he had worked until his final days. Armani's death marks the end of an era for the fashion world, where he was celebrated as one of Italy's most influential figures, with an empire valued at over $12.1 billion at the time of his passing.
Born on July 11, 1934, in Piacenza, Italy, Armani grew up in a modest family during the tumultuous years of World War II. His early life was shaped by hardship, including surviving Allied bombings that left lasting scars. Initially pursuing medicine at the University of Milan, Armani dropped out after two years and completed military service. His entry into fashion began in 1957 as a window dresser and sales clerk at La Rinascente department store in Milan, where he honed his eye for style.
In the mid-1960s, Armani joined Nino Cerruti as a menswear designer, where he refined his skills in tailoring. By 1973, alongside his partner Sergio Galeotti, he established a design office in Milan. The pivotal moment came in 1975 when he founded Giorgio Armani S.p.A., launching his first ready-to-wear collections for men and women. Armani revolutionized fashion by deconstructing traditional suits, introducing softer, unstructured jackets that emphasized comfort and fluidity, challenging the rigid styles of the time. This minimalist approach, often in neutral tones, became his signature and propelled Italy to the forefront of global fashion.
Armani's influence extended beyond clothing. He expanded into accessories, perfumes, cosmetics, and home interiors, partnering with L'Oréal for fragrances. Major lines included Giorgio Armani, Emporio Armani, Armani Exchange, and Armani Junior. By 2009, his retail network spanned 60 Giorgio Armani boutiques, 122 Emporio Armani stores, and more across 37 countries. He ventured into luxury hospitality with Armani Hotels, opening the first in Dubai's Burj Khalifa in 2010. In film, his designs for "American Gigolo" (1980) iconicized Richard Gere's wardrobe, influencing menswear worldwide. He also costumed "The Untouchables" (1987) and created outfits for stars like Lady Gaga.
Armani's accolades were numerous: honored as an Officer of the Legion of Honour in 2008 and Knight Grand Cross of the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic in 2021. By 2001, he was deemed the most successful Italian designer, with a personal fortune estimated at $8.1 billion in 2017 and annual turnover of $1.6 billion at his death. In recent years, he introduced fine jewelry, like the 2019 Haute Couture collection and the 2022 "Josephine" line. He sponsored Scuderia Ferrari starting in 2021 and participated in cultural events like the Paris Photography Public Programme in 2015.
Armani's personal life remained private. He had relationships with both men and women, but his longest was with Sergio Galeotti, who died in 1985 from AIDS-related complications. Armani enjoyed sailing on his yacht and maintained a low profile despite his fame.
Beverly Hills held a special place in Armani's global empire. The Giorgio Armani boutique on Rodeo Drive served as a flagship for his brand in the U.S., embodying the luxury that defines the area. Armani was honored at the Rodeo Drive Walk of Style, recognizing his contributions to fashion. He hosted major events there, including a cocktail party on March 1, 2025, celebrating the 2025 Award Season and a Pre-Oscar celebration. In November 2024, the boutique launched the Fiat 500e Giorgio Armani Collector's Edition, attended by celebrities like Ashley Park, Jaime King and Will.i.am. The store frequently attracted stars like Denzel Washington. In 2022, his niece Roberta hosted an Oscars event at the Rodeo Drive location. The Giorgio Beverly Hills brand aimed to make Rodeo Drive a premier shopping destination, tying Armani's legacy to the city's glamour.
Armani's passing leaves a void in fashion, but his influence endures in wardrobes worldwide, including Beverly Hills' iconic style scene.
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