ROMANTIC FUTURE

An emotional state; an overwhelming sensation; a vision - a treasure trove of stories, encompassing flashbacks of memory, creating an aesthetic unity based on precise ethical values. The dynamic approach of a man looking to the future is united with that extreme and uncompromising attitude to life that can only be described as romantic. A passion that influences so many human actions and thoughts.

There is a touch of revolution in the air, liberating the Giorgio Armani man from any trace of the commercialisation that has taken over the world of fashion, a sense of freedom ushering in an astonishing look which we call “romantic futurism”. Here, a military sense of discipline, apparent in the fitted and restrained silhouette, is contradicted by romantic detailing such as a beret, glasses, or even sheepskin gaiters. This last statement of poised elegance is inspired by a marvellous photograph of Paul Poiret in a chunky pullover and fitted jacket, stylishly set off by a glimpse of gaiters appearing between trousers and shoes. The emphasis on techno qualities throughout the collection, appropriated from contemporary sportswear, is brilliantly compatible with the rigorous shapes and the exploration of warm materials, clearly expressed by furnishing fabric patterns used for the trousers. Alternatively, jersey is the fabric of choice across a gamut of trousers and shirts, and is used to great effect in the jacket with an understated natural collar. From this fusion of styles - warm/soft, elegant/military, fitted/functional - emerge close fitting bombers in raw edge sheepskin with Armani micro pattern prints, and neat overcoats in leather lined with neoprene. Equally important are the denims finished with bands and piping in velvet to convey a debonair sophistication. This trend culminates in the jacket and trousers entirely in velvet, a favourite fabric of Giorgio Armani on account of its innate elegance and capacity to reflect light.