The 80-year old designer, known for his clean cut and elegant
collections, was joined by celebrities such as Leonardo Di
Caprio, Cate Blanchett, Hilary Swank and Tina Turner for the
bash in Milan, headquarters to his fashion empire.
Nicknamed King Giorgio, the designer, who once worked as a
window dresser, is known for being hands-on in creating one of
the most recognized fashion brands in the world.
"There have been many moments, from the beginning until today,"
Armani told reporters upon arrival at the gala on Thursday
evening. "Maybe my most emotional moment was when I saw my cover
on 'Time'," he added referring to the magazine.
Armani, who designs both couture and ready-to-wear, has dressed
celebrities, royals as well as sportsmen. Stars such as Beyonce,
David Beckham and Megan Fox have modeled his perfumes or
underwear.
"Madison Avenue in 1985, I think it was, so not very long after
he came to our country and I have a closetful still of those
beautiful suits, those classic suits, and I still wear them,"
actress Glenn Close said of when she bought her first Armani
piece.
"James Bond" actor Pierce Brosnan paid tribute to the stylist,
calling him "a mighty man" while Italian actress Sophia Loren
simply said the designer "is my friend".
For the anniversary, Armani has converted a 1950s building that
once stored cereals for a new exhibition dedicated of his
designs.
The event took place ahead of the Friday opening of Milan Expo,
of which Armani is special ambassador for fashion.
Officials are counting on some 20 million people visiting the
six month exhibition of worldwide products and technologies.
(Reporting By Reuters Television; Writing by Marie-Louise
Gumuchian; Editing by Toby Chopra)
[© 2015 Thomson Reuters. All rights
reserved.] Copyright 2015 Reuters. All rights reserved. This material may not be published,
broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
|
|