Giorgio Armani
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Giorgio Armani

Fashion Designer

b. July 11, 1934
d. September 4, 2025

"To create something exceptional, your mindset must be relentlessly focused on the smallest detail.”

Giorgio Armani was a world-renowned Italian fashion designer and the founder of Armani, a luxury fashion house. Known for sophisticated minimalist silhouettes, Armani’s influential designs shaped contemporary views of gendered clothing and modern red-carpet fashion.

Born in Piacenza, Italy, Armani was raised in poverty during World War II. In 1951, he entered the University of Milan to study medicine. After completing compulsory military service in 1954, his interest pivoted to fashion, and he took a job at a department store. Seven years later, he joined Nino Cerutti’s menswear company, Hitman.

In 1975, Armani and Sergio Galeotti, his business and life partner, founded Giorgio Armani S.p.A. in Milan. The brand’s collections were marked by a natural fit and subtle color palette, both revolutionary at the time. In 1977, Armani met Leo Dell’Orco, who began working for Armani’s company. The two formed a close friendship. 

Armani captured public attention when Richard Gere wore his clothing in the film “American Gigolo” (1980). Three years later, Armani was honored as best international designer by the Council of Fashion Designers of America. His suits were worn by the lead actors in the stylish hit television series “Miami Vice” (1984-1989), and Hollywood stars began walking the red carpet in his evening wear. 

In 1985, Armani suffered the devastating loss of Galeotti to AIDS. Dell’Orco became his new business partner and, eventually, his lover. 

As he processed his grief, Armani channeled his energy into brand extension. He opened his first restaurant in 1989 and expanded into home goods and book publishing. By the end of the 1990s, he owned 200 stores earning roughly $2 billion in annual sales. 

In 2000, the Guggenheim Museum featured an exhibition of Armani’s work. That same year, Armani, who had long kept his personal life private, revealed for the first time that he had engaged in sexual relationships with both men and women.

Armani launched his haute couture line in 2005. He opened a hotel in Dubai in 2010 and another in Milan in 2011. He remained his company’s chairman, CEO, and creative director until his death at home at 91. 

The 2026 Winter Olympics dedicated its opening ceremony to Armani and his legacy. His company continues to thrive under the creative guidance of Dell’Orco and Armani’s niece.