Renowned fashion designer Giorgio Armani passes away at the age of 91.

Giorgio Armani, one of the most influential fashion designers in the world, has passed away at the age of 91. The announcement was made by Armani's fashion house on social media last weekend.

Armani began his career in fashion as a window dresser and buyer for the Italian department store chain La Rinascente in the 1960s. His first designs were created for the company of Italian master Nino Cerruti. After gaining fame for his minimalist tailored menswear in subdued colors, he partnered with Sergio Galeotti to found Giorgio Armani SpA in 1975, with Galeotti handling the financial aspects until his death in 1985.

Since Galeotti's death, Armani has been the sole CEO of the fashion empire. After his death, Armani continued to work until his last days, selling perfume and jeans in large quantities in his stores. He dressed Hollywood stars in elegant one-of-a-kind creations, reflecting on five decades in business in a portrait that appeared in a supplement of the "Financial Times" last weekend.

Armani's name is associated with women's fashion classics. As of today, the Armani corporation employs around 8,700 people, has over 2,000 stores, and a dozen factories worldwide. The fashion designer made a fortune estimated to be over eleven billion euros, and never took his corporation public or accepted takeover offers.

Valentino Garavani considered Armani "a friend, never a rival." Donatella Versace expressed sorrow over Armani's death on Instagram. Armani missed major shows in Milan and Paris in June and July 2023 due to health reasons. On his 91st birthday, Armani announced a comeback for September, but did not return as planned.

After Sergio Galeotti's death in 1985, Giorgio Armani became the sole owner and CEO of the Armani Group; no other individual succeeded Galeotti as sole CEO, as Armani retained full control. Moves toward succession involving close associates like Pantaleo (Leo) Dell'Orco and family members have been planned for the future.

Armani's impact on the fashion industry will undoubtedly be felt for years to come. His minimalist yet elegant designs will continue to inspire future generations of designers. Rest in peace, Giorgio Armani.