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

In the world of high-end fashion, one name stands out as a beacon of timeless elegance and innovative design - Giorgio Armani. Founded in 1975 by Armani and Sergio Galeotti, the Armani Group has grown from a humble beginning to become a global powerhouse, with an estimated net worth of over 11 billion euros.

The Armani Group, a privately-held company, has rejected all takeover offers and maintains its independence. With over a dozen factories scattered around the globe, it produces a wide range of luxury goods, from haute couture to accessories, and operates over 2,000 stores, many in prime locations.

The Armani Group's success can be attributed to its ability to adapt to changing trends while staying true to its core values. Giorgio Armani made a significant impact on men's fashion in the 1980s, reinventing the men's jacket to be softer, more fluid, and more relaxed. He also popularised the T-shirt as a suitable wardrobe staple for a suit, breaking traditional fashion norms.

Armani's designs have graced numerous Hollywood stars, including Richard Gere, Kevin Costner, Tom Cruise, Leonardo DiCaprio, Nicole Kidman, and Cate Blanchett. His designs are synonymous with glamour and sophistication, making him a favourite among the A-list.

Since Sergio Galeotti's death in 1985, Giorgio Armani has been the sole CEO of the fashion empire. However, in recent years, there have been signs of a potential transition. After Armani's passing in 2025, leadership and control of the Armani Group were placed under a foundation established by Armani and his life partner, Leo Dell'Orco.

The foundation, which holds significant control including veto rights, proposes the CEO and signals a possible shift towards new management and potential sale. The foundation is governed by Armani's sister Rosanna, two nieces Silvana and Roberta, and nephew Andrea Camerana, with Dell'Orco holding the largest share of voting rights.

Despite these changes, the Armani Group continues to thrive, employing around 8,700 people and maintaining its position as a leader in the fashion industry. The legacy of Giorgio Armani lives on, not just in his designs, but in the company he built and the impact it continues to make.