Cover Giorgio Armani acknowledges the audience during the Giorgio Armani Privé Spring/Summer 2019 show at Paris Fashion Week 2019 (Photo: Stephane Cardinale / Getty Images)
Giorgio Armani acknowledges the audience during the Giorgio Armani Privé Spring/Summer 2019 show at Paris Fashion Week 2019 (Photo: Stephane Cardinale / Getty Images)
1 / 1
In celebration of the Italian maestro’s 90th birthday, we reflect on Giorgio Armani’s enduring influence on fashion through some of his most celebrated collections
Giorgio Armani is a living legend whose name remains synonymous with luxury fashion, and as one of the greatest Italian designers of all time. From pioneering menswear and tailoring to redefining elegance in women’s fashion and haute couture, his storied career is a testament to his enduring vision and masterful craftsmanship.
Armani’s ability to infuse a signature Italian sprezzatura into formal wear has ensured an influence that extends far beyond the runway, revolutionising celebrity dressing and becoming intertwined with Hollywood glamour. In light of the designer’s 90th birthday on July 11, we’re reminded of his indelible mark on the fashion landscape. Keep scrolling to discover the standout collections that cemented his designs as the pinnacle of high fashion in this birthday tribute.
In case you missed it: Discovering Giorgio Armani’s Made to Measure collection
Giorgio Armani Men’s Spring/Summer 1976
Actor Richard Gere in an Armani suit (Photo: Art Streiber / Getty Images)
1 / 2
Armani’s debut menswear collection revolutionised the industry. His gentle tailoring techniques deftly transformed the rigid structure of men’s suits, introducing a new era of comfort and style.
This collection saw softer and more relaxed silhouettes than other men’s formalwear lines on the market—namely through the omission of padding and stiffening—in a neutral palette range of natural colours.
This year also launched the first of many collaborations Armani would have with Hollywood, with the designer’s clothes featuring heavily in the neo-noir film American Gigolo. The stern perception of power suits turned seductive and fresh when worn by Richard Gere’s titular character.
Giorgio Armani Cruise Collection 1992
Giorgio Armani 1992 Cruise Collection Advance (Photo: Thomas Iannaccone / Getty Images)
1 / 3
In womenswear, Armani’s journey has been equally transformative. His foray into womenswear marked a pivotal moment in fashion history, introducing a sense of masculine confidence to feminine silhouettes.
This sartorial revolution prioritised understated elegance over flamboyance—think strong shoulders balanced with an overall softness—with a heavy emphasis on movement and comfort. It’s a philosophy that remains imbued in his collections today.
Emporio Armani Fall 1993 Ready-to-Wear
Emporio Armani Fall 1993 Ready-to-Wear Runway Show (Photo by Fairchild Archive / Getty Images)
1 / 3
This collection was celebrated for its timeless elegance and classic designs. Sleek jackets were paired with flowing skirts to create interesting contrasts in volumes, while dresses adorned with signature Armani embellishments showed elongated silhouettes that exuded grace and refinement.
Above Actress Katie Holmes attends the 2008 Met Gala in New York City (Photo: Michael Loccisano / FilmMagic)
Actress Katie Holmes attends the 2008 Met Gala in New York City (Photo: Michael Loccisano / FilmMagic)
1 / 1
Over a decade later, American actress Katie Holmes returned to Armani’s 1993 line for her 2008 Met Gala appearance in a red strapless gown. The vintage dress showcased the designer’s aptitude for creating pieces that remain stylish and relevant for years to come.
Armani Privé Spring/Summer 2005
Armani Privé Haute Couture Spring/Summer 2005 (Photo: Victor Virgile / Getty Images)
1 / 4
Armani’s venture into haute couture with Armani Privé in 2005 marked a new chapter in his illustrious career. At 70, when many might consider retirement, he showed no signs of slowing down, showcasing his unwavering creativity and passion for exquisite craftsmanship.
The first Privé showing reaffirmed Armani’s status as a master of refined elegance, captivating with his signature blend of timeless sophistication and contemporary flair in red-carpet-ready designs.
Armani Privé Fall/Winter 2022
Giorgio Armani Privé Haute Couture Fall/Winter 2022 (Photo: Peter White / Getty Images)
1 / 3
This collection paid tribute to the 1930s Art Deco movement, evoking an atmosphere of cabaret lounges and European nightclubs of the bygone era with trompe l’oeil patterns and beads galore.
It was a celebration of graphicism and shimmering satins, showcasing Armani’s signature intricate detailing with a focus on sparkle and frivolity.
Giorgio Armani Women’s Spring/Summer 2023
Giorgio Armani Spring/Summer 2023 (Photo: Giovanni Giannoni / Getty Images)
1 / 3
Timeless feminine codes connected by a golden thread across cultures were the cohesive theme behind this presentation, which once again highlighted the maestro’s ability to infuse classic elegance with modern sensibilities.
Featuring flowing silhouettes and refined details that drew inspiration from traditional garments like the kurta and the cheongsam, this collection was Armani’s softest iteration of womenswear yet.
Giorgio Armani Men’s Spring/Summer 2024 Menswear
Giorgio Armani Spring/Summer 2024 Menswear Collection (Photo: Giovanni Giannoni / Getty Images)
1 / 4
Armani’s latest menswear collection weaves a captivating new narrative with familiar elements. Soft, elongated forms dominate, with intricate patterns evoking summery knots and weaves. The interplay of blue, sand, and natural tones creates a light, fresh aesthetic that resonates with the contemporary gentleman.
Topics
Sabrina Low was the former assistant digital editor for Tatler Singapore.
