The fashion industry has fallen into mourning as legendary fashion designer Giorgio Armani, Italy’s master of the power suit and relaxed elegance, passed away at the age of 91, reports Cape {town} Etc.
The Armani Group announced his death on Thursday, 4 September.
‘With infinite sorrow, the Armani Group announces the passing of its creator, founder and tireless driving force: Giorgio Armani,’ the company said in its statement.
‘Il Signor Armani, as he was always respectfully and admiringly called by employees and collaborators, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loved ones.’
Born in Piacenza, Italy, Armani began his illustrious career in fashion after a stint in the military and work as a window dresser. He later joined Nino Cerruti’s design team before launching his own label in 1975. Rising quickly to the top of the industry, Armani soon went on to dress some of Hollywood’s biggest stars.
Over the years, he expanded his brand, crafting ‘a vision that expanded from fashion to every aspect of life, anticipating the times with extraordinary clarity and pragmatism’. His efforts resulted in the Armani empire, which now spans more than 500 stores worldwide and several luxury hotels across the globe.
Despite his declining health, Armani remained actively involved in his brand until his final days, the fashion group added.
‘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 statement read.
Armani had been unwell for some time and had had to drop out of his menswear show in Milan and the Paris Armani Prive show earlier this year on doctors’ orders, News24 reported.
‘In 20 years of Armani Prive, it’s the first time I’m not in Paris,’ he said in a statement sent to AFP in July. ‘My doctors advised more rest, even though I felt ready.’
He had recently expressed plans to return to work this month. His death came just weeks ahead of celebrations marking 50 years of his eponymous label.
Armani’s funeral will be held privately, in accordance with his wishes, the Group added. However, a funeral chamber will be open over this weekend in Milan for well-wishers to pay their respects.
‘Giorgio Armani is a company with fifty years of history, built with emotion and patience. Giorgio Armani always made independence – of thought and action – his hallmark. The company is, now and always, a reflection of his spirit,’ the statement concluded.
‘His family and employees will carry the Group forward in respect and continuity of these values.’
Also read:
Miss Supranational SA’s Cape Town couture moment: A high-fashion affair with Stephen van Eeden
Picture: @armani / X
