Giorgio Armani:
His Own Wedding Style

Whether you are walking down the aisle as the bride or taking the return walk as the groom, you both will be the center of attention. This is the time to look your best.

In an exclusive interview with Giorgio Armani, Wedding Style asked the world-famous designer for his views on wedding attire for the bride, the groom, and how to accessorize. While Armani's creations are distinguished by elegant lines, they also provide the ultimate in comfort, reinforcing the idea that less is more.

What inspires the men's and women's fashions you design for a wedding?

One of the most important aspects of being a designer is to create clothing that makes people feel both elegant and comfortable, especially for such an important occasion as a wedding. I do not produce a specific "wedding" collection, but design on request for very special events. The design is usually, however, based on my current collection. The fact that a wedding is.the most significant day in a couple's life together inspires me to lean towards a very romantic, sensual line for both the bride and groom. However, the choice of clothing for a wedding is extremely personal and individual. True inspiration is based on how to best highlight the wearer and how to make them feel comfortable, confident, and special. The highest-quality fabrics, luxurious materials, a true sense of tailoring, and attention to small details are the focal points when creating an outfit for a wedding.

What are important points for men to think about when selecting a suit or tuxedo, and for a woman when selecting a wedding gown?

When selecting a suit, I recommend that men choose something that is beautifully tailored in a high-quality fabric, incorporating something special and personal, without forgetting small details such as shoes, the type of shirt, or even cufflinks. Comfort translates into confidence, which is the most important element for this important occasion.

I recommend that a woman select a gown that makes her feel special, highlights her best features and personality. A dress and one's accessories (such as a veil, one's shoes, one's choice of bouquet) should allow for easy movement and confidence. And finally, simplicity and understatement are key, resulting in not only a beautiful, elegant look, but also a personal and memorable one.

What is the look for the Armani suit collection in 2004?

My fashion philosophy is "Evolution rather than Revolution," so for the upcoming fall/winter seasons, suits showcase my sense of established style with an injection of modernity, confirming that menswear is open to change. Jackets are close-fitting and well-fastened, like the coats, creating a compact and pure line. Almost with a military dash, these streamlined silhouettes offer different solutions, such as the use of shawl collars, special stitching, and classic or futuristic materials. Evening jackets are unstructured, to ensure comfort, yet in beautiful and unusual fabrics such as chenille jersey. While there is always room for the ultra classic look, my fall/winter collection offers a selection of rejuvenated suits incorporating different shapes, unexpected fabrics, and modern forms.

What trends or styles do you feel will make an impact for 2004?

For women, there is strong return to romanticism and femininity, without going overboard with fussy details and unnecessary accessories. Style [triumphs] over trends, with the use of luxurious materials such as lace, beading, and crystals, in comfortable, simple, yet very elegant fabrics such as jersey and silk caddie. It is important for the bride to be remembered for how beautiful and radiant she looks, rather than choosing a dress that screams for all the attention. Men are becoming more open to different options for their wedding attire. There is great interest in incorporating a personal touch to their suit, whether it is a family crest or an unusual cut. A cardigan-style jacket in the highest-quality wool, paired with immaculate, flat-front matching trousers, could be an interesting proposal for next year.

Written by Yanni Tzoumas. Contributions by Rita Hermes.