Armani's Niece Takes Creative Control

Giorgio Armani's death in September 2025 at age 91 followed a period of declining health that saw him miss Milan Fashion Week for the first time ever in June of that year. He remained the sole owner and creative force behind the brand he founded in 1975 until his passing. Silvana Armani, his niece, is not a newcomer to the fashion house, having long served as the head of the womenswear division and a board member. She has worked closely with her uncle for years and is considered his stylistic successor. The future of the brand's ownership is meticulously planned. Giorgio Armani's will transfers 100% of the company to the Giorgio Armani Foundation. This structure is designed to protect the brand's identity while mandating a partial sale to outside investors over the next five years. The will specifically names luxury giants LVMH, L'Oréal, and EssilorLuxottica as preferred potential buyers for a stake in the company. This move signals a strategic shift for a brand that fiercely guarded its independence for decades. Silvana is part of a new governance structure that includes longtime collaborator Leo Dell'Orco as Chairman of the group. Other family members, including niece Roberta Armani and nephew Andrea Camerana, also sit on the board. The Armani empire, which includes fashion, fragrances, hotels, and restaurants, generated revenues of €2.3 billion in 2024. At the time of his death, Giorgio Armani's personal net worth was estimated to be as high as $12.1 billion.