Italian fashion icon Giorgio Armani dies at 91

“With infinite sorrow, the Armani Group announces the passing of its creator, founder and tireless driving force: Giorgio Armani,” the fashion house said in a statement.

Armani, often referred to as “Re Giorgio” (King Giorgio), was regarded as a symbol of modern Italian elegance. Over five decades, he built a global fashion empire that combined creativity with business acumen, generating an annual turnover of around €2.3 billion ($2.7 billion).

The designer had been in declining health and was forced to miss his group’s shows during Milan Men’s Fashion Week in June — the first time in his career he had ever been absent from a catwalk presentation.

Known for his precision and hands-on approach, Armani personally oversaw everything from design and advertising campaigns to the smallest details on the runway.

A funeral chamber will be open to the public in Milan on Saturday and Sunday, while a private funeral service will follow at a later date, the company confirmed.