The Enduring Influence of Giorgio Armani’s Tailoring

Giorgio Armani’s impact on contemporary fashion is monumental, with one of the most iconic looks evolving from a delightful stroke of luck. Long before the era of celebrity stylists aligning luxury houses with A-list clients, a young Julia Roberts, just twenty and newly nominated at the Golden Globes, picked a suit from the Armani men’s section on Rodeo Drive. Not only did she take home the award for Best Supporting Actress that night, but she also inadvertently popularized a silhouette that resonates across runways and street styles today.

A Moment That Inspired a Movement

Roberts’ famous louche grey suit—comfortable yet stylish, oversized without drowning her figure—highlighted a rapidly changing perspective on women’s tailoring. Armed with a crisp white shirt and a standout tie, Roberts created an outfit that became a benchmark for winter work wardrobes. The suit’s soft structure underscored a new paradigm in women’s fashion, steering clear of rigid, confining styles often seen before her appearance.

The return of tailored women’s suits has resurfaced with veracity in recent seasons, celebrating comfort alongside style. At the January Golden Globes, this theme was elegantly encapsulated when Ayo Edibiri wore a loosely tailored grey Loewe jacket, directly nodding to Roberts’ 1990 ensemble. Here, a subtle homage to the past merges flawlessly with modern sensibilities, creating both a connection and a fresh conversation around tailoring.

A Stylish Renaissance for the Suit

The fashion world is embracing this tailored aesthetic, with a distinct attention to softer silhouettes. Recent runways showcased an array of designers who showcased that classic Armani influence—softness paired with structure. For example, Victoria Beckham’s collection featured a marl grey suit with gently sloping shoulders, allowing for a contemporary take on professional attire. Similarly, Stella McCartney melded business wear with a playful take on nightlife in her ‘Laptop to Lapdance’ collection, capturing the spirit of dressing for all occasions.

Veronica Leoni’s first Calvin Klein collection reflected the minimalism popularized in the ’90s, enhanced by hints of Armani through boxy, longline skirts and tailored blazers. Meanwhile, Sarah Burton’s debut at Givenchy introduced hourglass shapes juxtaposed against looser trousers, creating a balance that feels both modern and timeless. Each designer’s exploration echoes Armani’s ethos of creating garments that prioritize ease without sacrificing style.

The Art of Tailoring Today

Armani’s legacy extends to even the latest Autumn/Winter collections, where his signature styles—grey pinstripes, wide-cut trousers, and ethereal blouses—take center stage anew. The focus is on a balance of proportions: items that feel borrowed from the men’s department without veering into the realm of costumes. Precision is key; tailoring should flatter without overwhelming.

For those brave enough to embrace the full look, pairing a tie with suiting can prove to be an adventurous style move. Opt for vintage silk ties to add personality, emphasizing the elegance of the tailored elements. eBay stands out as a treasure trove for sourcing such pieces, featuring endless options that exude class and sophistication.

Harmonizing Comfort and Style

To encapsulate the Armani charm, consider breaking the mold of classic button-down shirts by incorporating T-shirts. This tactic maintains the polished look while introducing an element of casual easiness. Brands like COS offer beautifully cut T-shirts in shades of grey that effortlessly blend with tailored garments, retaining that essential understated elegance.

A successful look also includes choosing shoes that balance comfort and style. Brogues or loafers provide a sophisticated touch, while slightly chunky trainers contribute a cool edge to the outfit, harmonizing with the relaxed nature of the suit.

Emphasizing Nonchalance

The ultimate essence of Roberts’ iconic look revolves around an air of relaxed sophistication. Hair and makeup should mirror this sentiment, leaning toward understated and effortless rather than overdone glamour. Clear skin with minimal makeup can help maintain that coveted laidback look. Furthermore, ditching heavy handbags allows for pure convenience—pockets are a stylist’s secret weapon.

Armani’s influence is a masterclass in the art of balance, where comfort, style, and individual expression converge. While fashion continuously evolves, the spirit of his designs persists, enchanting those who seek to navigate their wardrobes with grace and confidence.