Fashion A-Z: A is for Armani

Heya Divas,

My friend and I were chatting today about how in a perfect world I am going to find Armani's grandson, make him fall hopelessly in love with me and that will be my happy ending. But in the meantime here's the essential info you-need-to-know about Armani guide

The godfather of Italian fashion design Giorgio Armani once said:

"Women want to be sexy, so ... I will make them sexy.”

A bold statement perhaps, but for someone who has been working in the fashion industry since the 1960's and launched his own brand in 1974, it's no wonder he has such conviction.

"Androgynous today means that men and women have the same attitude towards what they want to wear, ... It's not unisex dressing, but more the idea that you can see a jacket on a woman in this show, which you can just as easily see on a man.”

Armani restructured the jacket for a softer tailored look by eliminating shoulder pads and linings which can be suitable (pun intended!) for both men and women. He took a timeless look at made it his own. His style is elegant and understated. It plays with layers of texture and colour they have a timeless quality which is emphasised by nostalgic advertising. His style has been described as a post modern which is suited to life in the city.

Key Design Features:

Fall 09 - showing a little detail can make a suit as feminine as a dress.

Women:

• Peter pan collars on simple blouses,
• Navy blazers with matching skirts or tailored trousers.
•  Gabardine denim

Linen suit from Summer '09

Men:

•  Navy blazers,
• Crumpled linen jackets,
•  Leather blousons (1980)
• Oversized coats.

Both men's and women's designs include subtle patterns, textures, monochrome colours, optic whites, and easy lines with a twist such as low slung buttons on double breasted suits. He also designed a range of sportswear including Reebok, fragrances and a range of childrens clothing called 'Armani Junior.'

Hugs and Cupcakes,