The fashion world has lost one of its most influential eyes.
Giorgio Armani, the Armani founder who launched his namesake label in 1975, has died, the company confirmed in a Sept. 4 statement. He was 91.
“With infinite sorrow, the Armani Group announces the passing of its creator, founder, and tireless driving force: Giorgio Armani," the fashion brand said in a statement. “He was always respectfully and admiringly called by employees and collaborators, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loved ones.”
The company—which revolutionized ready-to-wear couture—said there is a “void left by the one who founded and nurtured this family with vision, passion and dedication.”
Indeed, Armani was incredibly focused on his work, and lauded among the wealthiest members of the LGBTQ+ community with a net worth of over $12 billion.
“Indefatigable to the end, he worked until his final days, dedicating himself to the company, the collections, and the many ongoing and future projects,” the company’s statement continued. “It is precisely in his spirit that we, the employees and the family members who have always worked alongside Mr. Armani, commit to protecting what he built and to carrying his company forward in his memory, with respect, responsibility, and love.”
Although the late fashion powerhouse had retreated from the public eye in recent months due to his declining health—he notably pulled out of Milan’s fashion week in June, marking the first time in his career he had missed one of his brand’s fashion shows—he was always focused on the work.
Armani’s vision was behind some of the most eye-catching red carpet looks including Julia Roberts’ oversized suit at the 1990 Golden Globes (which, while he designed, she bought off the rack proving his prowess for ready-to-wear numbers) and several of Jodie Foster and Cate Blanchett’s most memorable moments, as well as costumes for Lady Gaga’s Monster Ball and Born This Way tours.
In addition to sporting his looks for some of the biggest nights of their careers, stars have praised the designer for his humility and professionalism.
“Mr. Armani can walk into a room and turn everything upside down in this very quiet, authoritative way,” Foster told Harper’s Bazaar in 2013. “Once we had decided on a dress for the Oscars. It was all fitted and ready to go. He arrived, shook his head, and then sent everyone scrambling for different fabrics and dresses. It was like an episode of I Love Lucy.”
And while he quickly established himself as a leader in the field, Armani continued to develop his craft into his 90s.
“My vision of clothing has evolved, staying true to the credo that the dress should highlight the person, not the other way round,” he told Esquire last year. “My penchant for soft tailoring, considered decoration, and liquid lines is the same of the early days, but the proportions are continually renewed. I am considered a master of timelessness, but if you look closely at my work, things change constantly.”
To see celebrity tributes to the legendary fashion designer, keep reading.
Donatella Versace
Russell Crowe
Julia Roberts
Victoria Beckham
Ashton Kutcher
Jessel Taank
Laura Pausini
Francesca Fagnani
"Thank you for helping make women stronger and more aware," the Belve host wrote on her Instagram Stories Sept. 4. "Every meeting, every dress worn, was a tremendous privilege. We will miss you."
Charles Leclerc
"A great honor to have had the chance to meet and work with such an amazing person," the Formula One racing driver wrote on his Instagram Stories Sept. 4. "You will be missed, Giorgio."
Anna Dello Russo
"Bon voyage, Maestro Giorgio," the Italian fashion editor wrote in Italian under the Instagram announcement. "I'll always carry you in my heart."
Simona Ventura
"George you are and will always be our KING," the Rai 2 host wrote on Instagram Sept. 4 in Italian. "Thank you for making us proud to be ITALIAN!! I love you."