Fashion is in mourning after losing one of its best-known legends. Giorgio Armani, the Italian designer who epitomized effortless chic and created a fashion empire that spanned the globe, died on September 4, 2025, at the age of 91. Armani died at home peacefully, his fashion company said, after a long battle with an unspecified illness. The designer had previously mysteriously skipped Milan Fashion Week in June for the first time during his career, raising eyebrows among fashion insiders.
A Global Empire Rooted in Sophistication
Armani’s journey from a modest background to becoming one of the top 200 billionaires in the world, as listed by Forbes, is a testament to his visionary approach. At the time of his death, his empire was valued at over \$10 billion USD (approx. \$13.8 billion CAD). What began as a luxury clothing label evolved into a lifestyle powerhouse spanning accessories, cosmetics, fragrances, home furnishings, books, chocolates, and more.
He also made an impact outside of fashion, owning EA7 Emporio Armani Milan (Olimpia Milano), Italy’s leading basketball team. Since 1998, he diversified into the hospitality business, opening 20 restaurants and two luxury hotels, in Milan and Dubai.
A Milestone That Will Never Be
Armani was setting out to celebrate a grand occasion this September marking the 50th birthday of the Giorgio Armani brand during Milan Fashion Week. The celebration was to be the culmination of a career that reset modern tailoring and red-carpet glamour.
Tributes Pour In From Fashion and Film
Industry legends and celebrities left touching posts after Armani’s death was announced. Victoria Beckham posted on Instagram, “The fashion world has lost a true legend. I feel honored to have called him a friend.” Even with decades of rivalry between Armani and the Versace brand, Donatella Versace paid tribute, stating, “The world lost a giant today. He created history and will be remembered forever.”
Russell Crowe also remembered donning his first Armani suit to Cannes in 1997 and referred to it as the beginning of a long affair with the designer’s suits. Julia Roberts also remembered her most memorable 1990 Golden Globes grey Armani suit, referring to it as one of her greatest all-time looks.
A Timeless Icon
From runways to red carpets, the mark of Giorgio Armani is indelible. His legacy will not only be remembered in the world of fashion, but in the classic values of class, simplicity, and elegance he promoted for more than half a century.
