Armani Group have just announced the passing of the legendary and pioneering designer Giorgio Armani at the age of 91.

Il Signor Armani, as he was known throughout the industry, founded his namesake brand in Milan in 1975. Throughout the 1980s and 90s, he became a leading name in menswear, becoming known for his slouchy double-breasted suits, which defined the era’s sartorial language. In 1981, he established Emporio Armani, a sister brand which focused on more contemporary silhouettes and aimed at the youth market. Both brands still show during Milan Fashion Week, and continue to push the boundaries of tailoring and relaxed formalwear.

Armani Group released a statement saying that Armani “passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loved ones. Indefatigable to the end, he worked until his final days, dedicating himself to the company, the collections, and the many ongoing and future projects… Giorgio Armani always made independence – of thought and action – his hallmark. The company is, now and always, a reflection of this spirit. His family and employees will carry the Group forward in respect and continuity of these values.”

This was accompanied by a statement from Armani’s employees and family: “In this company, we have always felt like part of a family. Today, with deep emotion, we feel the void left by the one who founded and nurtured this family with vision, passion, and dedication. But it is precisely in his spirit that we, the employees and the family members who have always worked alongside Mr. Armani, commit to protecting what he built and to carrying his company forward in his memory, with respect, responsibility, and love.”