Which Italian designer founded Armani in 1975?

Giorgio Armani founded Armani in 1975. He established Giorgio Armani S.p.A. in Milan with his business partner Sergio Galeotti, creating the foundation of one of Italy’s most influential fashion groups.

Before launching his own label, Armani gained experience at Milan’s La Rinascente department store and later worked with the Italian menswear designer Nino Cerruti. Those roles helped him develop an approach centered on refined fabrics, understated colors, and clothing that looked polished without feeling rigid.

Armani first made his name with menswear, especially softly structured jackets that removed much of the padding and stiffness from traditional tailoring. His relaxed suits became a defining expression of late twentieth-century Italian style and were later embraced in women’s fashion as well. The brand expanded into womenswear in 1976.

The name “Armani” is sometimes used loosely for the whole corporate group, but the original company was Giorgio Armani S.p.A. Later labels included Emporio Armani, Armani Exchange, and Armani Casa, extending the designer’s influence beyond the runway.