Giorgio Armani, the iconic 90-year-old designer who transformed the luxury fashion world, has revealed plans to step down as the head of his global fashion empire within the next two or three years.
The legendary founder of the Giorgio Armani brand, renowned for change the fashion industry, has long dodged questions about the future of his company—until now.
In an interview with the Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera, Armani shared his thoughts on his future at the helm of the empire he started nearly five decades ago. “I can still give myself two or three years as head of the company,” Armani said. “Not more, it would be negative.” Despite maintaining control for decades, the designer made it clear that his time running the company is coming to a close.
Speculation about Armani’s succession has been ongoing for years, particularly since he has no children to pass the company on to.
Yet, Armani’s future dreams seem to be preoccupying him. “I can’t sleep at night. I no longer know the deep and peaceful sleep I once had,” he confessed, hinting at how much the future weighs on him. “Now I dream at night, and in my dreams, I build my future.”
Although he is intent on stepping back, Armani is equally determined to preserve his company’s independence.
He admitted that external investors have approached him, though he’s not ready to open that door just yet. “For the moment, I do not see any openings,” Armani said, indicating his desire to retain control over his brand’s legacy.
He did, however, reveal that he has developed a “structure, a project, a protocol” to manage the transition when the time comes.
Armani’s life story reads like a movie script. Originally studying medicine and serving in the army, he shifted his path dramatically, entering the fashion world through window dressing and sales.
By 1975, he founded Giorgio Armani, and within a year, he had launched his first ready-to-wear collection—a bold move that cemented his place in fashion history.
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Today, Armani’s designs continue to dominate red carpets worldwide, with high-profile celebrities like Richard Gere, Eric Clapton, and Lady Gaga among his devoted fans.
As for succession, Armani’s legacy will be safeguarded by a mix of family and long-time associates.
His sister and three other family members currently work within the company, alongside his long-term collaborator and partner, Pantaleo Dell’Orco.
The Armani Foundation, a charitable organization he established, will also play a role in ensuring that his fashion house continues to reflect the vision of its creator.
Though his departure will mark the end of an era, Armani’s lasting influence on the fashion world is undeniable. He is a Fashion Icon indeed.
