Giorgio Armani, the iconic Italian fashion designer, revealed his sole life regret in an interview just days before his death at the age of 91. The Armani Group announced his passing on Thursday, though the cause has not been disclosed. His health had been declining, forcing him to miss Milan Men’s Fashion Week in June for the first time.
In an interview with The Financial Times published on August 29, Armani said: “I don’t know if I’d use the word workaholic, but hard work is certainly essential to success. My only regret in life was spending too many hours working and not enough time with friends and family.” He echoed similar sentiments in a 2020 interview with The Guardian, stating he would strive to spend more time with loved ones if given a second chance.
Armani also discussed succession plans for his company. “My plans for succession consist of a gradual transition of the responsibilities that I have always handled to those closest to me, such as Leo Dell’Orco, the members of my family and the entire working team,” he explained. “I would like the succession to be organic and not a moment of rupture.” At the time of his death, his fortune was estimated at $12.1 billion, and he remained sole shareholder and chief executive of the fashion house he founded in 1975.
The Armani Group released a statement describing him as having forged a “vision that expanded from fashion to every aspect of life, anticipating the times with extraordinary clarity and pragmatism.” The company noted his commitment to community needs and support for his beloved Milan. A funeral chamber will open in Milan on Saturday and Sunday, followed by a private service.
Celebrities paid tribute, including Cindy Crawford, who wore an Armani suit when she eloped with Richard Gere in 1991. On Instagram, she wrote: “Heartbroken to hear about the passing of a legend, Giorgio Armani. A true master of his craft.” Armani, often called “Re Giorgio” in Italy, is regarded as one of the most influential European designers of the 20th century.
