Giorgio Armani, the legendary Italian fashion designer and founder of the luxury brand that bears his name, has revealed that he plans to retire within the next two to three years.
Armani, now 90 years old, made the announcement in an interview with the Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera, where he shared his thoughts about stepping away from his empire, which he has built and led for nearly five decades.
A Long-Awaited Retirement
For years, the question of succession at Giorgio Armani has loomed large over the company. Armani has remained in complete control of his fashion house since founding it in 1975, and there has been widespread speculation about who would take over once he stepped down. Now, the designer himself has finally set a timeline for his retirement.
“I can still give myself two or three years as head of the company,” Armani told Corriere della Sera. “Not more, it would be negative.”
When pressed on whether he could stay longer, he firmly stated that he would not. His decision seems rooted in the natural passage of time and the physical toll that leading the company has taken on him.
“I can’t sleep at night. I no longer know the deep and peaceful sleep I once had. Now I dream at night, and in my dreams, I build my future,” Armani said.
This candid revelation shows the weight of responsibility Armani has carried, as he has maintained a tight grip on the company’s operations over the years. Despite the fame and fortune, the sleepless nights reflect the burdens that come with being the head of one of the world’s top fashion empires.
A Carefully Planned Succession
Though Armani has often avoided discussing his company’s future without him, he indicated in this recent interview that he has laid out a structured plan for succession. While he did not provide specific details, he mentioned having “built a kind of structure, a project, a protocol” to ensure the company’s smooth transition after his retirement.
Armani is fiercely protective of the independence of his company. He has stated in the past that he wants the fashion house to remain free from outside control, and in his recent interview, he reiterated that he has been approached by potential investors but is not open to any deals at the moment.
“I have received slightly more insistent approaches from potential outside investors in my company, but for the moment I do not see any openings,” he told Corriere della Sera.
Armani’s desire to maintain the company’s autonomy likely stems from his deep emotional connection to the brand he has nurtured since its inception. Throughout the years, he has overseen every aspect of the business, from design to marketing, and even branching out into industries such as hotels and home décor.
Armani’s Heirs: A Blend of Family and Trusted Associates
With no children of his own, there has been constant speculation about who would inherit the Armani empire. According to the designer, his succession plan includes key family members, trusted business partners, and a charitable foundation.
Armani’s sister and three other family members who are already involved in the company are expected to play significant roles in its future. Additionally, Pantaleo Dell’Orco, Armani’s long-term collaborator and partner, is likely to be among the individuals who will help steer the company after the designer steps down.
The Giorgio Armani Foundation, which was established by Armani in 2016, is also part of the succession plan. The foundation’s main goal is to safeguard the company’s independence and ensure that its creative legacy remains intact.
From Medicine to Fashion: A Remarkable Career
Giorgio Armani’s journey to becoming one of the most influential figures in fashion was an unexpected one. Born in the Italian town of Piacenza, he originally studied medicine before leaving university and joining the army. His career in fashion began almost by accident when he took up a job as a window dresser and later moved into sales.
In 1975, he made the bold decision to start his own fashion label. The following year, he presented his first ready-to-wear collection, marking the beginning of what would become one of the most successful and globally recognized fashion brands in history.
Over the years, Armani’s minimalist and sophisticated designs have earned him widespread acclaim. He is credited with revolutionizing menswear, particularly through his unstructured suits, which became synonymous with a new kind of elegance. His designs quickly gained favor with Hollywood celebrities, and Armani became a fixture on red carpets around the world.
Red Carpet Favorite and Hollywood Ties
Armani has maintained close relationships with numerous celebrities throughout his career, dressing some of the world’s biggest stars. From Richard Gere and Eric Clapton to modern icons like Lady Gaga, Armani’s creations have graced countless red carpets, awards shows, and movie premieres.
One of the most famous moments in fashion history came when Richard Gere wore an Armani suit in the 1980 film American Gigolo, catapulting the designer to international fame. Since then, Armani’s name has been synonymous with elegance, luxury, and timeless style.
In the interview with Corriere della Sera, Armani reflected on his illustrious career, acknowledging the lasting impact he has made in the world of fashion. “In my dreams, I build my future,” he said, hinting at the creative vision that has driven him throughout his life.
