For a brief period in time, twice a year in Paris, the cognoscenti of fashion convene for the HAUTE COUTURE…the real couture, the made to measure variety that starts in the mid 5 figures and elevates stratospherically from there. Traditionally, this was the inspiration for the ready to wear collections which will follow in its heels in about 2 weeks’ time. Times have changed and the calendars no longer allow for the influence unless a particular house also does ready to wear. Nevertheless, this is the time that these brands show off what they are made of …especially with the ateliers that are available to them.
So, whether you choose the blah blah blah of this collection or simply ascribe to the visual aspects of the collection, the end result is the same …it is pure and unadulterated Armani at his best. At this stage of his career, he just pretty much does as he pleases and if there is a misstep along the way, then so be it. He is basically unapologetic for his collections as he feels he has earned his stripes in the world of fashion as being, first and foremost, loyal to his design codes and to his clients.
For me, the master shows off his genius by contrasting the hard tailoring of his jackets by pairing them with the soft folds of his skirts and dresses. He conjures up a sort of louche quality by “throwing’ them over shoulder and with that sort of bedheaded look that can only be the result of one helluva good time. The palette is daring, when you consider that greens of this range are hardly a first choice for most people and yet Mr. Armani manages to not make the color a primary focus…. If that makes any sense to you.
The bottom line is that this collection gives day looks, evening looks and in between looks, equal attention and all with the signature nonchalant ease that made Armani fashion royalty. This ease which looks effortless and yields an arresting result for the wearer is only an illusion for the viewer.
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