Armani Preparing to Retire

Italian fashion designer Giorgio Armani hinted on Tuesday that he is moving closer to retirement and making plans for who will take over his fashion empire.

"I'm already organizing staff who will continue my work," said the 75-year-old Armani, according to Reuters. "Of course I am not eternal; there comes a time when you must hand it over."

Armani has been vague about his plans and has not publicly designated a successor on either the creative or the management side.

Late last month Armani made several management changes, signaling an easing of his workload. The designer is also reshuffling his agenda to take better care of himself.

Armani was diagnosed with hepatitis in May, and Reuters described the designer as appearing "still frail" on Tuesday from his bout with the disease.