How did Giorgio Armani's soft suit and 'greige' palette transform global style? A look back at his innovations

Italian fashion designer Giorgio Armani founded his namesake label in 1975 and quickly made his mark with the launch of his first collection. He revolutionized the suit, moving away from the rigid, formal style of the time and introducing a more relaxed, modern silhouette.

Over time, his label became known for soft suits and a greige (balance of gray and beige) color palette, which presented a more relaxed and minimalist fit. His suits did not include heavy padding or linings, yet they still managed to look sharp.

Speaking of the same in his autobiography, Per Amore, he said:

"I removed the stiffness that was inside to give the suppleness of a cardigan and the lightness of a shirt, and I invented the unstructured jacket for both men and women. Now that manner of dressing has become classic, or rather ‘classic Armani.’ To achieve this, the public’s approval has been crucial: I mean a real public, made up of ordinary men and women."

Armani’s unstructured suits struck the perfect balance between casual elegance and professional sophistication, earning him widespread recognition in the fashion industry.

According to Giorgio Armani, the ideal wardrobe was:

"distillate of timeless clothes that men and women can combine, each time, in the way that best represents them at that particular moment."

A look at Giorgio Armani's style and innovation

Armani became famous with his soft, unstructured suits that broke away from the stiff and formal styles of the time. Speaking of the working women, the fashion designer once said in a statement reported by the BBC:

"I realised that they (women) needed a way to dress that was equivalent to that of men. Something that would give them dignity in their work life."

At the 1978 Academy Awards, just a few years after launching his label, Diane Keaton wore Armani for the big event. Two years later, Richard Gere was also seen in an Armani suit, adding to the brand’s growing recognition.

Celebrities at that time, and even today, love Armani for its minimal and comfortable fit. Actor Leonardo DiCaprio wore an Armani suit at the 2002 Cannes Film Festival.

As Armani gained recognition for redefining men’s suits, the brand also expanded into women’s fashion. His designs combined femininity with comfort, resonating strongly with women. Celebrities further amplified Armani’s influence. Katie Holmes chose a white Armani gown for her wedding to Tom Cruise, while stars like Beyoncé and Victoria Beckham embraced his creations in the early 2000s, proving that Armani’s appeal went far beyond menswear.

This year, Demi Moore was spotted in an Armani gown at the Golden Globe Awards. Talking about his inspiration, Giorgio Armani said in a Vogue interview:

"My work has one single goal: giving women the inner strength that comes with being at ease, with who they are and what they are wearing"

In 2011, Armani also joined Green Carpet Challenge by Livia Firth, creating outfits from recycled fabrics for her and actor Colin Firth. The company also launched cosmetics, accessories, and eyewear.

Giorgio Armani’s designs were experimental yet practical, making them easy to wear every day.

Talking about his work, Armani said in a statement, reported by BBC:

"I'm never satisfied. In fact, as someone who is forever dissatisfied and obsessive in his search for perfection, I never give up until I've achieved the results I want."

Also Read: What is Giorgio Armani’s net worth? Fortune explored as Italian fashion mogul dies at 91

Who are the surviving family members of Giorgio Armani? Details explored as veteran Italian designer dies at 91

×

Was this article helpful?

Thank You for feedback