Giorgio Armani: The Monet of Fashion
Beatrice Lessi
Photos: Funkyforty
If you want to experience fashion at its most breathtaking, head to the Armani Privé 2005–2025 exhibition at Armani/Silos in Milan. I visited last weekend with Yvonne of FunkyForty, and we felt like kids in a candy shop. Since the exhibition is still new and not widely covered, we had the space almost entirely to ourselves—a rare luxury in the world of haute couture.
Like Water Lilies
These pieces are beyond extraordinary. Armani has created stunning gowns over the years, but this collection feels even more refined, more timeless. It reminded me of Monet’s water lilies, the series of paintings that now hang in the world’s greatest museums and sell for record-breaking prices. Few people realize that Monet painted them in his 80s, while gradually losing his sight. Yet, the result was pure magic—just like Armani’s latest creations.
Among the jaw-dropping designs are the famous Armani gowns worn by Jennifer Lopez, Anne Hathaway, Cate Blanchett, and many more. It’s fun to read the tags, search for photos online, and see how these masterpieces looked on the red carpet.
Armani’s Hands-On Approach
Armani personally curated the entire exhibition. A journalist asked him if it was true that he had been working late the night before the opening. His response?
“You mean until this morning early?”
That dedication speaks volumes.
I also did my own little round of interviews—with the Italian waiters and staff working at Armani/Silos.
I asked: Is Giorgio Armani snobbish? Is he really hands-on?
One staff member replied:
“Not because I’ve been working for years for him, but I am proud to say he’s my boss. He is a very respectful man and always treats everybody well. He loves his job and leads by example.”
Another added:
“Before every show, twice a year, or before an exhibition like this one, he comes ten days early and works non-stop, from 9 AM to 9 PM. Of course, he has his rhythm, and yes, he has staff. He also takes his calm lunch break, Italian style. But he does things himself—he simply loves his job.”
Il Re of Fashion
Now I understand why they call him “Il Re”—The King.
As we stepped out of the exhibition, Yvonne turned to me and said:
“These clothes are a dream… They could ship them all to Switzerland, and we could wear them all!”
I couldn’t agree more.
