Giorgio Armani, Italian designer and fashion icon, passed away on Sept. 4, 2025. 

Armani, a world-renowned name in the fashion world, actually began his career after taking leave from the Italian military, according to Martin Roll. His fashion career began with a job in retail. 

In 1975, Giorgio Armani and Sergio Galeotti founded Giorgio Armani S.p.A., and introduced their first ready-to-wear line, according to Armani’s website.  

Armani went on to become a great success. He dressed actors like Diane Keaton and Jodie Foster, launched countless lines and opened stores around the globe. 

However, what set Armani apart from other designers was his change to the red carpet scene, as well as his compassion and love for his clients and his craft, according to BBC. 

Armani was not only a contributor to feminist fashion in terms of creating ground-breaking suits, but was also an all-around philanthropist. He has received awards from People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA), The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and was committed to using faux fur and reducing greenhouse gas emissions, according to the Armani values website. 

Throughout his fashion career, Armani had many achievements and iconic moments that solidified his name in the pop culture realm. He was the honorary chair of the Met Gala in 2008, styled countless actors and pop culture leaders (Zendaya, Leonardo Dicaprio and Cate Blanchett) and created a space where tradition could be changed, and stereotypes were shattered, according to Vogue. 

When considering Armani’s life and legacy, one may simply see another designer brand. However, with careful consideration and evaluation of his lifetime achievements and accomplishments, Giorgio Armani and the Armani brand have solidified their names amongst the most cutting-edge fashion designers and brands. 

As you remember Armani, remember he once said, “There are three very simple rules. The first one is to know yourself well enough and therefore not disguise yourself; the second is to know what to wear and when; the third is to never let the clothes wear you —you’re the one who’s wearing them.”