New Delhi, Sept. 4 -- The visionary designer Giorgio Armani has died at the age of 91, the Armani Group confirmed on Monday in a statement. "With infinite sorrow, the Armani Group announces the passing of its creator, founder, and tireless driving force: Giorgio Armani," the Milan-based fashion house said. His passing marks the end of an era in world fashion. Armani was a man who shaped the idea of elegance for more than five decades, turning his name into one of the most recognized luxury brands.

At the time of his death, the Armani Group was valued at about $9 billion, according to both Forbes and Bloomberg. The company built its reputation across a wide mix of lines - haute couture, ready-to-wear, perfumes, accessories, even hotels an...