Giorgio Armani: 10 Beautiful Things
Photos: Courtesy of Armani, Volkswagen, Getty Images, Giobanni Giannoni, David Cook, Courtesy of Armani, David Cook (4), Getty Images
1/11As a label, Giorgio Armani is so influential that it's almost possible to forget there is one man at the reins. Gowns for the red carpet, costumes for films, fragrances, dinner plates, men's suits, hotels, smartphones—there's almost nothing Armani hasn't designed, and all with the same minimalist aesthetic that he describes as "down-to-earth and sophisticated." Now 79, he shares an inspiration common to all good Italian sons. "The first feminine style that struck me was my mother," he says. "She was graceful and had a sober style, but I found it very elegant." In his most recent collection, metallic amethyst evening sheaths and jackets shimmer without veering from the Armani mandate of gentle color and clean silhouettes. As he says, "Simplicity and naturalness always win"—in fashion and in life.
2/111. Vw Beetle
"My first car. I had to sell it to start my business. But I bought it back as soon as I could."
3/112. Risotto Alla Milanese
"My favorite dish, a great, traditional Italian recipe."
4/113. Evening Gowns
"Evening gowns are not a rule but an exception in every woman's wardrobe. Being an exception, they should be valuable, unique, mysterious, and above all, glamorous."
5/115. Art Deco Coffee Table
"I love Art Deco—its geometric design, discrete decorative elements, special finishes."
6/114. Women's Blazers
"I love blazers that are curvy and as soft as a shirt." Wool-blend blazer, $2,445, at Giorgio Armani stores.
7/116. Neck Scarf
"Scarves emphasize a woman's light silhouette beautifully. They create motion and give grace." Scarf, $525, at Giorgio Armani stores.
8/118. The Little Prince by Antoine De Saint-Exupéry
"The author says great truths without emphasis but with a touching tone."
9/117. Armani Privé Bois D'encens Perfume
"It seems intense but has some light notes and is hard to forget." $260, giorgioarmanibeauty-usa.com.
10/1110. the Great Wave at Kanagawa by Katsushika Hokusai
"This work summarizes two of my greatest passions: Japanese prints, which often inspired my collections, and the sea."
11/119. T-Shirt
"If it didn't exist, I would have to invent it." Cotton silk T-shirt, $325, at Giorgio Armani stores.
