Giorgio Armani is an Italian fashion designer (born 11 July, 1934 in Piacenza, Italy), particularly noted for his menswear.

Armani trained in medicine, giving it up for photography, but was called up for national service in 1957. Afterwards, he got a job in a department store, La Rinascente, as a window dresser. From 1961 to 1970, Armani worked as a designer under Nino Cerruti , whom he left in order to do freelance work.

In 1974, with assistance from his partner, Sergio Galeotti, he established his own company, Giorgio Armani S.p.A. with a men's wear label, introducing a ladies' wear line in 1975. He is known today for his clean, tailored lines. He achieved his international breakthrough by tailoring for numerous Hollywood names and especially for Richard Gere in the title role of American Gigolo in 1980/81. His sister Rosanna Armani joined him in the company; Galeotti died in 1985.

In 1996, Armani was one of several designers convicted of corruption.

Quote

The difference between style and fashion is quality.

External links

giorgioarmani.com Official Website

The gentle touch (Suzie Mackenzie, Guardian, Sat 11 Dec 2004)