Giorgio Armani: a life story

He is a living legend, a maestro who never ceases to amaze and inspire.

Just recently, Giorgio Armani celebrated his 91st birthday – an occasion that invites us to pay tribute to the genius who, throughout his long and successful career, has become a symbol of restraint and impeccable style, etching his name permanently into the history of fashion.

The maestro was born in the city of Piacenza, near Milan. His childhood coincided with one of the darkest periods in Italy’s history – Giorgio, his two brothers, and his younger sister lived through the hardships of World War II at a very young age. In later interviews, Giorgio would recall that his family was poor and “life was hard.”

From an early age, he dreamed of a career in medicine, inspired by the idea of saving lives. He was successfully admitted to medical school, but after two years, he dropped out and was drafted into military service. After completing his service, he decided not to return to university, choosing instead to pursue an entirely different path. He began as a window dresser and salesperson at the La Rinascente department store, and later met Nino Cerruti, for whom he started designing menswear.

In 1975, at the age of 31, armed with experience and a clear vision, Armani founded his own brand with his friend Sergio Galeotti. Their partnership was a breath of fresh air for the industry: Giorgio was responsible for design, and Sergio handled the business side. However, ten years later, Sergio passed away, and all responsibilities fell on Armani’s shoulders.

The brand’s first product was a men’s blazer without lining or shoulder pads – a bold departure from conventional tailoring. Soon, Armani’s minimalist suits gained popularity and were embraced by the public. Giorgio Armani was one of the first to challenge traditional gendered tailoring: he introduced sharp, structured lines into women’s wear and softness into men’s wear, using beautiful, lightweight, flowing fabrics. This approach revolutionized the fashion industry and became the brand’s signature.

Though his time at medical school was brief, it gave Armani a deep understanding of the human body, which helped him design clothing that enhances freedom of movement, natural elegance, and grace. 

Six years later, Armani launched a second line – Emporio Armani, targeting a younger audience and modern trends. Emporio preserved the elegance and quality of the main line while offering more affordable pieces.

In Italy, Armani is a highly respected figure. His influence extends far beyond celebrities and catwalks – he has contributed to everyday life as well. He designed uniforms for the Italian Carabinieri and taxi drivers, and even created a gospel cover for the Pope – just a few highlights among many of his accomplishments.

Today, Armani is more than a fashion label. Over the course of his career, Giorgio Armani has created jewelry, entered the world of perfumery, and opened hotels and restaurants around the globe. Despite his age, the maestro continues to work and expand, building Armani into a true empire while remaining faithful to himself, his refined taste, and timeless style.

photо: Instagram / Giorgioarmani

photо: Spotlight