The Prince of Fashion passed away today at the age of 91. “He created a vision that extended from fashion to every aspect of life,” reads the company’s heartfelt statement announcing his passing.

Giorgio Armani, an undisputed protagonist of Italian fashion and style, died today at the age of 91. “The legacy I hope to leave is one of commitment, respect, and attention to people and to reality. That’s where everything begins,” read the social media profiles of his group companies and Olimpia Milano, along with the news of his passing, meaningfully signed by his employees and family: “Mr. Armani, as he was always called with respect and admiration 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-new projects both existing and in progress.” The chapel of rest will be set up starting Saturday, September 6th and will be open to visitors until Sunday, September 7th, from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm, in Milan, at Via Bergognone 59, at the Armani/Teatro. In accordance with his express wishes, the funeral will be held privately.

Born in Piacenza on July 11, 1934, he moved to Milan in 1949, where he graduated from the Leonardo da Vinci High School and then enrolled in the medical school at the University of Milan. After three years, he interrupted his studies due to the army draft, and upon completion of his military service, he found work as a clerk at Rinascente. He remained there until 1965, when he was hired by Nino Cerruti to redesign the fashion for the Hitman brand. In 1974, the Armani by Sicons leather clothing line was launched. In 1975, he designed his first collection and founded the eponymous company, together with his life partner Sergio Galeotti (who died only 10 years later).