Italian fashion designer Giorgio Armani has died, the company has confirmed.

Mr Armani died "surrounded by his loved ones" aged 91.

The Armani Group announced the news "with infinite sorrow" on Thursday, paying tribute to its "creator, founder and tireless driving force".

A statement read: "Indefatigable to the end, he worked until his final days, dedicating himself to the company, the collections, and the many ongoing and future projects.

"Over the years, Giorgio Armani has crafted a vision that expanded from fashion to every aspect of life, anticipating the times with extraordinary clarity and pragmatism.

"He has been driven by relentless curiosity and a deep attention to the present and to people."

The legendary fashion designer had been unwell for some time and was forced to drop out of his group's shows at Milans Men's Fashion Week in June.

It was the first time in his career that he had missed one of his catwalk events.

Known as "Re Giorgio" - King Giorgio - the designer was known for overseeing every detail of his collection and every aspect of his business, from advertising to fixing models' hair as they head out on to the runway.

A funeral chamber will be set up on Saturday and Sunday in Milan, the company said.

A private funeral will then follow at an unspecified date.

Mr Armani was synonymous with modern Italian style and elegance.

He combined the flair of the designer with the acumen of a businessman, running a company that turned over some 2.3 billion euros ($2.7 billion) a year.