Legendary fashion designer Giorgio Armani has passed away at the age of 91, just weeks before the planned celebration of his fashion house’s 50th anniversary at Milan Fashion Week. His death was announced on Thursday with “infinite sadness,” according to a statement from the company, leaving behind the pressing question of who will succeed him and inherit his fortune, valued at more than $12.1 billion.

A self-described workaholic, Armani remained actively involved in every aspect of his work. His empire extends far beyond clothing, spanning accessories, cosmetics, furniture, fragrances, books, flowers, and even chocolates, generating annual revenues of $2.7 billion. Despite his immense success, he never married and had no children—making the future of his brand all the more intriguing.

As he revealed to the Financial Times in August, Armani had drawn up a succession plan as early as 2016, involving both collaborators and family members. His successors include his sister Rosanna, two nieces, a nephew, his close partner in life and business Leo Dell’Orco, as well as a philanthropic foundation. All of them already sit on the company’s board and are expected to share its shares, while his nieces and nephew hold senior positions within the group.

“My succession plans involve a gradual transfer of the responsibilities I’ve always held to those closest to me,” Armani had stated, referring to Dell’Orco, who heads menswear design across all Armani collections. He emphasized that he wanted the succession to be “organic and not a moment of rupture.”

Leo Dell’Orco, regarded as part of the family, was Armani’s closest companion. Although the two never spoke publicly about their relationship, they shared many years together. In his 2022 autobiography Per Amore, Armani wrote: “He is the person I have entrusted with my most personal thoughts, professional and otherwise, and he has guarded them with discretion.”

His sister Rosanna also played a key role in the company, while his niece Silvana collaborated with him on the women’s collections. Another niece, Roberta, left her career in film to take over the brand’s public relations, frequently representing her uncle.

Beyond his fashion empire, Armani leaves behind luxury residences in Milan, Tuscany, Saint-Tropez, Antigua, and New York, the Olimpia Milano basketball team, and a $60 million superyacht.

He dressed some of Hollywood’s biggest names, including Julia Roberts, Beyoncé, Victoria Beckham, Sophia Loren, Cate Blanchett, George Clooney, and Brad Pitt. News of his death sparked an outpouring of tributes from the worlds of fashion and entertainment. Donatella Versace wrote on Instagram that “the world has lost a giant,” while Russell Crowe, Julia Roberts, and Victoria Beckham also shared messages of condolence.

His funeral will take place in a private family circle, but the public will be able to pay their respects at a special venue in Milan on Saturday, September 6, and Sunday, September 7.