Giorgio Armani’s rise from modest beginnings in Piacenza to global fashion luminary is one of subtle mastery. Giorgio initially studied medicine before transferring his path to fashion, working as a window dresser and then designing for Nino Cerruti. In 1975, he launched his own label with Sergio Galeotti, introducing soft, unstructured tailoring that revolutionized both power dressing and femininity in menswear and womenswear alike.

Armani’s aesthetic was a masterclass in understated luxury. His lightweight, soft‑shouldered jackets and refined silhouettes reshaped the 1980s power suit, making elegance feel effortless rather than extravagant. This minimalist approach resonated with Hollywood and global professionals alike, cementing his status as the "master of luxury ready‑to‑wear."

To expand his vision, Armani built an entire ecosystem of sub‑brands that spoke to different aspects of contemporary life. His flagship Giorgio Armani line represented refined couture and classic tailoring, while Emporio Armani captured a youthful, fashion-forward spirit and was frequently shown at Milan Fashion Week. In 1991, he launched Armani Exchange (A|X) in the U.S., targeting a younger, urban demographic with accessible pricing and street-inspired designs. Beyond fashion, the Armani universe came to include everything from Armani/Casa for interior design and Armani Beauty for cosmetics, to children’s wear, chocolates, florals, and even a chain of luxury hotels, each extension reflecting the same clean lines and elegant restraint that defined his original work.

Following Armani’s passing on 4 September 2025, the company faces a pivotal moment. True to his vision, he established the Giorgio Armani Foundation in 2016, safeguarding the brand’s independence and protecting it from acquisitions or public listing for at least five years.