Milan, Lombardy, Italy:  Globally acclaimed Italian fashion designer Giorgio Armani has passed away at the age of 91.

Armani took his last breath just as preparations were being made to mark the 50th anniversary of his fashion house, Giorgio Armani, which was founded earlier this month. Beginning his career by creating ready-to-wear outfits like classic Italian trousers and shirts, Armani went on to build his brand into a fashion empire worth nearly $10 billion. He is widely regarded as a visionary who transformed his creative style into a successful global business.

Born on July 11, 1934, in Piacenza, a small town in northern Italy, Armani initially worked as a window dresser in a department store. With time, he shifted his focus entirely to fashion, eventually achieving international recognition and success.