ALBAWABA - Italian fashion icon Giorgio Armani, who was also the king of a high-end lifestyle business, died Thursday at the age of 91 "surrounded by his loved ones."
"With infinite sorrow, the Armani Group announces the passing of its creator, founder, and tireless driving force: Giorgio Armani," it wrote in a statement.
Armani is the most famous designer of our time. He started his fashion house in Milan in 1975 and quickly became the best in his field. He went on to dress celebrities.
The group said that his service will be private, but that people who want to pay their respects can do so ahead of time at a funeral home in Milan that is open on Saturday and Sunday.
Italian designer Giorgio Armani (Photo by Emmanuel Dunand / AFP)
"Il Signor Armani, as he was always respectfully and admiringly called by employees and collaborators, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loved ones," it said.
"Indefatigable to the end, he worked until his final days, dedicating himself to the company, the collections, and the many ongoing and future projects," it said.
Armani had to cancel this year's clothing show in Milan because he was sick. He also missed the Paris Armani Privé show because his doctor told him not to.
In July, he told AFP, "In 20 years of Armani Privé, it's the first time I'm not in Paris."
"My doctors advised more rest, even though I felt ready."
Besides that, he said, "I watched and approved of every part of the show from afar," making sure that everyone knew what they were seeing.
People say that the Italian hero created fashion for the red carpet. He also created clothes for younger people that were less expensive through Emporio Armani and opened high-end hotels.
His death happened just a few weeks before a party to honor the 50th anniversary of his own record label.
Alessandro Giuli, Italy's Culture Minister, led the tributes and called her "a leading figure in Italian culture who was able to turn elegance into a universal language."
"His understated and innovative style redefined the relationship between fashion, cinema, and society, creating a lasting legacy for contemporary culture," he noted.
"He was not only a master of fashion but also a recognized ambassador of Italian identity around the world."
