A Final Reflection
Just days before his passing, Armani granted one last interview to Financial Times, revealing a rare glimpse into his mind. He admitted, “My only regret in life was spending too many hours working and not enough time with friends and family,” showcasing uncommon personal introspection for the renowned fashion titan. People.com
Despite health issues that caused him to miss Milan Fashion Week for the first time, Armani remained hands-on—managing shows remotely via video, ensuring every decision still bore his personal stamp. ПарадFinancial Times
A Legacy of Elegance and Control
At 91, Armani was still the sole creative director, CEO, and shareholder of his fashion empire. In his Financial Times conversation, he emphasized a “gradual transfer” of responsibilities to close collaborators and family, particularly to Leo Dell’Orco, to ensure the continuity of his vision. Financial TimesLuxury Tribuneenglish.aawsat.com
Newly launched was the Armani Archivio, a digital archive unveiled at the Venice Film Festival. This platform preserves his brand’s heritage and highlights his forward-looking mentality in safeguarding legacy. Luxury Tribune
A Life and Empire Cut Short
Giorgio Armani passed away peacefully at home on September 4, 2025, at age 91, after a battle with illness. ABC NewsReutersfashionista.comThe Daily Beast
His influence was unparalleled—credited with redefining power dressing for women in the 1980s and redefining elegance across men’s and women’s fashion. He built a luxury empire generating over €2.3 billion in annual revenue. ReutersThe Daily BeastIndiatimes
The industry reacted swiftly: tributes poured in from icons like Donatella Versace, Ralph Lauren, Anna Wintour, Julia Roberts, and the Italian Prime Minister. Armani was mourned as “Re Giorgio”—a cultural ambassador of elegance and timeless style. AP News
Reflections on a Monumental Career
On Crafting a Unique Brand Identity
For five decades, Armani practiced a style of “minimalist elegance” that made his wardrobe staples define modern simplicity and authority. ReutersThe Times of India
On Independence and Succession
Armani never sold out to bigger luxury groups—he preserved complete independence of his brand. He believed in a peaceful, succession protocol, aimed at avoiding rupture in leadership. SWI swissinfo.chFinancial Timesenglish.aawsat.com
On Legacy Beyond Fashion
Two days before his passing, Armani announced the launch of the Armani Archivio—a digital and physical archive of his creations, preserving the artistry for future generations. Luxury Tribune
Conclusion
Giorgio Armani leaves behind more than global fashion—it’s a legacy of elegance, autonomy, and cultural nuance. Through his personal reflections, gradual succession planning, and the Archivio, Armani ensured that his fashion philosophy continues to speak to audiences—both in spirit and structure.
