Giorgio Armani: The End of an Era as Italian Fashion Titan Dies at 91

The world of fashion is in mourning following the passing of legendary Italian designer Giorgio Armani. He died at the age of 91, leaving behind a legacy that transformed not only how people dress but also how they live. Known as “Re Giorgio” (King George), he built a global empire on a singular vision of understated elegance and impeccable tailoring.

Born in the rural town of Piacenza, Italy, Armani’s path to fashion was not direct. He initially studied medicine before his passion for design led him to a career as a window dresser at Milan’s largest department store, La Rinascente. In 1975, with just $10,000 and the support of his partner Sergio Galeotti, he launched his namesake label from a small office, an enterprise he would later jokingly say was “smaller than my bathroom today.”

His genius was in deconstructing the traditional, rigid suit, softening its lines and giving it a relaxed silhouette that revolutionised both men’s and women’s fashion. This “unstructured jacket” became his hallmark and, in the 1980s, the symbol of the new professional, ambitious woman. The designer’s rise to global prominence was cemented by his work on the 1980 film American Gigolo, which saw actor Richard Gere’s character outfitted almost exclusively in Armani’s clean, minimalist designs. This moment launched a lasting love affair between Hollywood and the Armani brand.

Over a career spanning five decades, Armani’s brand expanded far beyond clothing to become a global lifestyle powerhouse. The company, which he served as both CEO and sole shareholder until his death, diversified into perfumes, cosmetics, home furnishings, hotels, and even a professional basketball team, Olimpia Milano. His business acumen was as celebrated as his creative vision, as he famously kept his company independent in an era dominated by large fashion conglomerates.

Tributes have poured in from across the globe, with fellow designers and celebrities honouring his profound impact. Donatella Versace wrote on social media, “The world lost a giant today. He made history and will be remembered forever.” Anna Wintour, the global editorial director of Vogue, reflected on his far-reaching influence, noting, “He understood that fashion can’t exist in a silo… he left his mark in all these worlds—and everywhere he went.” Actress Julia Roberts, who famously wore an oversized Armani suit to the 1990 Golden Globes, described him as “A true friend. A legend.”

Armani’s passing marks the end of a golden era in Italian fashion. However, his timeless aesthetic and steadfast belief in quality over fleeting trends ensure his legacy will continue to inspire and define modern style for generations to come.