The Armani brand symbolizes refined Italian elegance, where understated luxury meets modern functionality. From its origins in the 1970s to becoming a red-carpet favorite, Giorgio Armani has consistently transformed formal wear, and particularly outerwear, into enduring fashion statements. Today, Armani’s jackets are celebrated as vintage treasures, prized for their timeless design and impeccable tailoring.
From Medicine to Milan: Armani’s Unexpected Path
Born in 1934 in Piacenza, Giorgio Armani initially planned a career in medicine. However, during medical school, he realized that the path was not right for him. He pivoted to fashion in the mid-1950s, joining La Rinascente in Milan and later becoming an assistant to Nino Cerruti in the 1960s, where he honed his eye for tailoring and fabric.
Founding the Global Armani Brand
In 1975, at age 40 and with financial encouragement from his partner Sergio Galeotti, Armani launched his eponymous label. His designs quickly redefined power dressing, bringing relaxed silhouettes, soft fabrics, and neutral tones to both men’s and women’s wardrobes. The unstructured suit jackets, or his black lace short skirt, became staples long before formalwear evolved into modern tailoring.
The Vintage Jacket Legacy
Armani’s early leather jackets, introduced in the 1970s, cemented his reputation as a pioneer of luxurious outerwear. These vintage leather jackets remain iconic. Crafted from supple materials and built with precise tailoring, they are coveted pre-owned collector pieces today. The enduring appeal of vintage Armani jackets is reflected in secondhand marketplaces and style guides, cited as must-have wardrobe investments
Red Carpet to Pop Culture Influence
In 1978, Diane Keaton wore an Armani jacket to accept her Oscar for Annie Hall, marking a turning point for red-carpet fashion and elevating the Armani brand to global prominence. Two years later, Richard Gere donned Armani in American Gigolo, establishing Armani jackets, and men’s tailoring, as markers of cinematic cool.
Enduring Style & Modern Resurgence
At 90, Armani remains staunchly involved in his fashion empire, celebrating nearly 50 years of influence. His jackets, especially vintage styles, continue to resonate with new generations. Collaborations with contemporary labels like Our Legacy blend retro spirit with modern sensibilities, proving that vintage leather jackets remain relevant.
Why Armani Jackets Define Timeless Elegance
Armani jackets capture the essence of understated luxury: rooted in classic tailoring, elevated with high-quality fabrics, and time-tested through decades of wear. Whether worn on the red carpet or rediscovered in vintage boutiques, these jackets exemplify what the Armani brand represents: vintage charm with modern relevance. They endure in wardrobes and hearts alike.
Visit Cavalli e Nastri, one of Milan’s iconic stores for vintage clothing shopping, to explore a curated selection of luxury vintage fashion.
