From Medicine to Window Dressing: Giorgio Armani and the Legacy of Fashion He Left at 91.

From Medicine to Window Dressing: Giorgio Armani and the Legacy of Fashion He Left at 91.

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Giorgio Armani, who passed away at age 91, leaves behind one of the most enduring legacies in fashion history.

At this day and age, it would be hard to find someone unfamiliar with his name — from perfumes to bags, tailored suits to the new faces of celebrities he helped introduce to the fashion world.

But what is it about this iconic man that many may not have known?

Born in Piacenza, Italy, Armani initially pursued a career in medicine before making a dramatic pivot to fashion.

His first job as a window dresser at La Rinascente, a department store in Milan, marked the beginning of a journey that would redefine elegance.

He later joined Nino Cerruti as a menswear designer, and in 1975, launched his own label with partner Sergio Galeotti.

Famously, they sold their Volkswagen for $10,000 to fund Giorgio Armani S.p.A., introducing soft, unstructured suits that revolutionized menswear.

His minimalist designs became a global symbol of sophistication, worn by Hollywood stars, CEOs, and royalty.

Though Armani dated throughout his life, he never married or had children.

His company remained privately owned, and his estimated net worth exceeded $9 billion.

His empire expanded into fragrance, hotels, and home decor.

Armani’s influence extended beyond style.

He championed emerging talent and used fashion as a platform for cultural expression.

His legacy echoes that of Patrick Kelly, the groundbreaking Black designer who became the first American admitted to the Chambre Syndicale du Pret-a-Porter in Paris.

Like Kelly, Armani believed fashion could empower and elevate.

From dressing Richard Gere in American Gigolo to launching Emporio Armani and Armani Privé, his vision shaped generations.

Giorgio Armani’s passing marks the end of an era, but his timeless aesthetic and entrepreneurial spirit continue to inspire.

Yetunde B reports for Yeyetunde’s Blog