He started his career in fashion after serving two years in the military
The Italian billionaire was one of the most iconic figures in all of high fashion.
He was synonymous with modern Italian style and elegance.
Armani was known for his flair as a designer and his acumen as a businessman.
His company turned over more than £2billion a year – and he had a net worth of nearly £5billion.
He had been unwell for some time.
And he was forced to drop out of his group’s shows at Milan’s Men’s Fashion Week in June.
It was the first time in his career that he had missed one of his catwalk events.
Known as “Re Giorgio” – King Giorgio – the designer was known for overseeing every detail of his collection.
He micro-managed every aspect of his business, from advertising to fixing models’ hair as they head out on to the runway.
In a tribute on Instagram, the Armani Group said: “Mr. Armani, as he was always respectfully and admiringly called by his employees and collaborators, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loved ones.
“Tireless, he worked until his final days, dedicating himself to the company, its collections, and the diverse and ever-evolving projects both existing and in progress.”
They added: “He was guided by an inexhaustible curiosity and a focus on the present and its people.
“Along this journey, he fostered an open dialogue with the public, becoming a beloved and respected figure for his ability to communicate with everyone.
“Always attentive to the needs of the community, he was committed on many fronts, especially to his beloved Milan.”
A funeral chamber will be set up on Saturday and Sunday in Milan, the company said, followed by a private funeral at an unspecified date.
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