The Italian fashion designer and billionaire brand owner Giorgio Armani has died at the age of 91.
“With infinite sorrow, the Armani Group announces the passing of its creator, founder, and tireless driving force: Giorgio Armani,” the fashion house said in a statement.
A funeral chamber will be set up on Saturday and Sunday in Milan, the company said, followed by a private funeral at an unspecified date.
He had been unwell for some time and was forced to drop out of his group’s shows at Milan’s Men’s Fashion Week in June, the first time in his career that he had missed one of his catwalk events.
Known as “Re Giorgio” – King Giorgio – the designer was known for overseeing every detail of his collection and every aspect of his business, from advertising to fixing models’ hair as they head out onto the runway.
He was the archetype of Italian style and elegance, reimagining men’s and women’s suits for a modern audience.
Armani, which began as a fashion company, expanded into music, sport and even luxury hotels.
He was also a revered businessman, with his company bringing in more than £2bn a year.
