Italian fashion icon and billionaire Giorgio Armani has passed away at the age of 91.
His fashion house, Armani Group, announced the news on Thursday, describing him as its “creator, founder, and tireless driving force.”
The company said a funeral chamber will be open to the public in Milan on Saturday and Sunday, after which a private ceremony will be held at a later date.
Armani had been recovering from an undisclosed illness and, for the first time in his career, was absent from his Milan runway shows in June.
Widely credited with revolutionizing red carpet fashion, Armani was preparing a landmark event during this month’s Milan Fashion Week to celebrate the 50th anniversary of his brand. Beyond clothing, his empire—valued at more than £7.44 billion—spanned home furnishings, perfumes, books, flowers, bars, clubs, and restaurants.
He was also the owner of the famed basketball team EA7 Armani Milan, popularly known as Olimpia Milano.
