By Fasuyi Tolulope Samuel
The world recently said goodbye to Giorgio Armani, the Italian designer who passed away at 91.
Known as the “King of Italian Fashion,” Armani changed the way the world dressed and built one of the most successful fashion empires in history.
Here are five facts about his extraordinary life that will inspire you.
1. He Didn’t Start Out in Fashion
Before conquering the fashion world, Armani studied medicine at the University of Milan and even worked in a hospital.
After leaving both medicine and the military, he found himself working as a window dresser and later as a menswear designer. That career switch at age 40 turned out to be the beginning of something legendary.
2. He Revolutionized the Suit
Armani is best known for softening men’s suits. He replaced stiff, padded jackets with relaxed, unstructured tailoring that gave men a new look—stylish but comfortable.
His designs also empowered women in the workplace, making the power suit a global trend. His minimalist style became a symbol of elegance in the 1980s and beyond.
3. Hollywood Loved Him
Armani’s big break into global fame came through Hollywood. In 1980, Richard Gere wore his suits in the movie American Gigolo, and Armani’s name became synonymous with sleek, modern fashion.
After that, celebrities like Diane Keaton, Jodie Foster, and countless Oscar stars turned to him for their red-carpet looks.
4. He Built a Global Empire
What started as a clothing brand in 1975 became a multi-billion-dollar empire. Armani expanded into fragrances, accessories, home décor, hotels, and even sports—owning a stake in Olimpia Milano basketball team.
Despite offers, he never sold out to big corporations, keeping full control of his brand until his passing.
5. He Worked Till the End
Even in his 90s, Armani was still active in designing and reviewing collections. His incredible discipline and attention to detail made him one of the hardest-working figures in fashion.
In his later years, he admitted one regret: working too much and not spending enough time with loved ones—a lesson for all of us about balance.
Final Note
Giorgio Armani wasn’t just a fashion designer—he was a visionary who transformed how the world dresses and lives. From humble beginnings to global influence, his life shows that it’s never too late to start over, that simplicity can be powerful, and that passion can build an empire.
