20th Century's Most Influential Artists
Giorgio Armani: Refined and Simple
by Welton Chang

His clothing is the epitome of fashion meets perfection. His designs are sometimes radical, sometimes conservative, and always in. He's had the most influence on menswear and womenswear since Christian Dior and the mini- skirt. Since more and more women have established themselves in business, they are always looking for something more than a drab suit and blouse. They look to Armani to design something that gives them the look of executive power. Armani's menswear is almost the dress code for the rich and famous. His designs are sleek and chic and always in good taste.

Born in Piacenza, Italy, the serious and hard-working northern Italian began life as a doctor. He soon found that medicine was not his cup of tea. After military service, he went to work for a department store, where he dressed windows and helped buyers. In 1964, Armani went to work for Nino Cerrutti, an important Italian textile manufacturer who also produced clothing lines for men. Armani produced the Hitman line for him.

After working for eight years in the textile industry, he was persuaded to start his own free-lance studio that became very successful. In 1974, the first Giorgio Armani menswear collection was presented. In 1975, he started a woman's line of clothing.

Armani's signature jackets were misshapen, rumpled silhouettes. The jackets were an instant success and many wondered what he would do for an encore. He continued to develop the Armani look and evening dress, which is showcased every year at the Academy Awards, where various stars go Armani.

His new line, Armani Exchange (A/X), is the less expensive line for everyday people. Although A/X is still rather expensive, it has struck a chord with the masses as something that can be worn everyday.

Armani is the definitive rich and posh wear of the 20th century. He single-handedly changed the look of formal fashion. Thank Armani for the nicest looking clothes you could ever wear.