Payam Javan: Giorgio Armani, the legendary Italian fashion designer whose name became synonymous with timeless elegance and modern style, has died at the age of 91, his company announced on Thursday. The Armani Group described him as its “creator, founder, and tireless driving force,” expressing “infinite sorrow” at his passing.

Armani, often referred to as “Re Giorgio” (King Giorgio), built an empire that blended creative vision with sharp business acumen, generating annual revenues of around €2.3 billion ($2.7 billion). Known for his meticulous attention to detail, he oversaw every aspect of his collections, from advertising campaigns to last-minute adjustments to models’ hair before they stepped onto the runway. He was forced to withdraw from Milan’s Men’s Fashion Week in June due to ill health, marking the first absence of his career from one of his shows.

The company confirmed that a funeral chamber will be open to the public in Milan on Saturday and Sunday, with a private funeral to follow at a later date. Armani’s death marks the end of an era for Italian fashion, leaving behind a legacy of understated sophistication and a global brand that redefined modern elegance.