GIORGIO ARMANI OPENS UP IN CANDID INTERVIEW

Boat International

Giorgio Armani, known for his understated elegance in design, displayed a similar frankness in his responses. "I design clothes. And I've always aimed for people's hearts. Today, I've opened mine to you", he stated, encapsulating the tone of the interview.

The designer spoke about his childhood loves and, for the first time, touched on his relationship with his right-hand man and life partner, Leo Dell'Orco. He also discussed his philosophies, religious views, and his professional relationships within the fashion world.

Armani's longevity in the industry seemed to allow for a level of honesty rarely seen in public figures. He addressed the issue of copying in fashion, stating, "I've been copied a lot. Too much. For years, by Calvin Klein, and not just him. Even the current designers are no joke. So much so that I almost feel obliged to reinvent myself a bit".

He expressed past interest in working for Chanel, admitting to having been influenced by the brand because, as he put it, "You copy the best. You don't copy the half-sock; you copy the leather boot".

On the political front, Armani shared his thoughts on various figures. He remained noncommittal about Trump, saying, "I find him physically improved because he's less red. On the political front, I don't stick my beak in; I'm not competent". Regarding Berlusconi, he said, "He was great. Then he chose a path, politics, that not everyone agrees with; but in the choice he made, he was good". He expressed interest in Elly Schlein but admitted to being perplexed by Giorgia Meloni, stating, "She talks a lot; but she needs to build a bit more".

Armani also offered insights into the Italian fashion world, describing it as "a closed world" where designers rarely confront each other. He spoke about his relationships with other designers, including Valentino, Gianni Versace, and Miuccia Prada, offering both praise and criticism.

Reflecting on his own approach to fashion, Armani recalled his mother's influence on his style: "My mother dressed me in an essential way, tied to her nature, her vision of things; very simple, but with personality". This sentiment seems to encapsulate Armani's 49-year career and his vision of fashion.

As for the future of his brand, Armani hinted at a succession plan: "I've built a kind of structure, a project, a protocol that should be followed by whoever comes after me in this adventure. I can still give myself two or three years as head of the company; any more would be negative".