History of Luxury: Armani

Whether it’s t-shirts, sunglasses or jeans; Virtually every luxury fan knows Armani. This Italian brand is especially popular among the target group of young men, where it has a high market share. The Armani brand is not only much older than you might think at first glance, but it also has a fascinating history. The history of the Armani brand begins with the skilled fashion designer, Giorgio Armani, who was born on July 11, 1934 in Piacenza, Italy. However, after graduating in medicine from the University of Milan, Armani decided to pursue a career in fashion. His career began in the 1960s, working as a window dresser for the La Rinascente department store in Milan. During this period, he developed a deep understanding of fashion and aesthetics. Later, he moved to the warehouse’s fashion department, where he worked as a designer for the men’s fashion team. These experiences laid the foundation for his rise in the world of fashion. In 1974, Giorgio Armani decided to create his own brand and, together with his partner, Sergio Galeotti, founded the company Giorgio Armani SpA. They started with a men’s collection and presented their first men’s fashion line in 1975. Armani introduced a new type of fashion luxury, characterized by a minimalist design, high quality materials and timeless elegance. His designs were notable for clean lines and a subtle color palette, distinguishing themselves from the opulent and extravagant styles of the time. Armani was one of the first major modern fashion houses based in Milan. Along with other legendary fashion designers, Armani established the cornerstone of Milan’s current importance in the fashion industry.

Although Milan was already known for its textiles since the Middle Ages, its enormous importance as a fashion center alongside Florence, Paris, Madrid and New York comes significantly from the end of the 20th century.

The breakthrough for Giorgio Armani came in the 1980s when he began designing collections for women. His elegant and simple designs became a symbol of style and sophistication. Armani created a new form of luxury with his creations, appreciated by celebrities, entrepreneurs and fashion enthusiasts alike. His style embodied a certain informality without losing elegance. Armani continued to expand his business and introduced new product lines, including Armani Exchange, a young and dynamic line, and Emporio Armani, a lifestyle brand with clothing, accessories, watches and jewelry. He also established himself in the field of haute couture with Armani Privé, an exclusive and personalized line appreciated by celebrities and high-end clients. Although Armani is not considered as high-end as other companies in the luxury industry, such as Louis Vuitton or Prada, it is on a solid financial pedestal. With annual sales of around $6 billion, more than 7,000 employees worldwide and profits of around $100 million, Armani is one of the most financially solid fashion groups. In the 2000s and 2010s, a merger with LVMH, Beiersdorf or Kering was frequently discussed, but a final agreement was apparently never reached.

Giorgio Armani is not only a fashion designer, but also a businessman. He has transformed his company into a global empire with a presence in the world’s main fashion centers. Armani’s influence on the fashion industry is indisputable and he has inspired many other designers. His designs are known for their simplicity, elegance and quality craftsmanship. Armani has received numerous awards over the years, including the prestigious CFDA Lifetime Achievement Award and the Bambi Fashion Award. He has also been decorated with the Order of Merit of Italy and the Order of the Legion of Honor of France. Furthermore, Armani is a well-known philanthropist and is actively involved in various charitable causes and social initiatives. The Armani brand has become a symbol of timeless elegance, luxury and style. Its products today include not only clothing, but also accessories, perfumes, cosmetics, watches and even interior design. Armani boutiques can be found on the most prestigious shopping streets and luxury shopping centers around the world. Giorgio Armani has left a lasting impact on the fashion industry and is praised as one of the most influential designers of the 20th century. His designs have had a significant impact on the way we perceive luxury fashion, and his name is synonymous with timeless elegance and the highest quality. The Armani brand will undoubtedly continue to inspire the fashion world with its refined designs and distinctive style.