We have sad news to report from the world of fashion today:
Giorgio Armani, the Italian fashion designer who became a billionaire and one-man global brand, has passed away.
He was 91 years old.
House of Armani announces founder’s passing
News of Armani’s death comes courtesy of a spokesperson for the House of Armani.
“With infinite sorrow, the Armani Group announces the passing of its creator, founder, and tireless driving force:
Giorgio Armani,” the iconic fashion brand said in a statement issued Thursday morning.
No cause of death was given, but fashion insiders have long suspected that Armani was suffering from some sort of serious illness.
In June, the founder was absent from his brand’s Milan runway shows for the very first time.
Despite his illness, however, it appears that Armani remained active until the very end of his life.
Giorgio was reportedly involved in plans for a Milan Fashion Week to celebrate the 50th anniversary of his brand.
It’s unclear at this time if the event will still take place when fashion week kicks off later this month.
In addition to his clothing designs, Armani built his namesake brand into a global juggernaut that produced home furnishings, perfumes, books, and restaurants.
He also. owned the basketball team EA7 Armani Milan, commonly referred to as Olympia Milano.
At the time of his death, Armani’s net worth was estimated to be over $11 billion.
Our thoughts go out to Giorgio Armani’s loved ones as they mourn the iconic mogul.