Giorgio Armani was born in Piacenza, Emilia-Romagna. He became a fashion designer for the fashion house Nino Cerruti in 1961, and worked there for nine years.
Armani then decided to persue freelance work, but in 1974 with his partner Sergio Galeotti, he established Giorgio Armani. It was initially a menswear label, but due to their success a womenswear line was created a year later.
He is known for his clear tailored lines, and his international breakthrough came when Richard Gere wore his clothes in the title role of American Gigolo in 1980.
In January 2007 Armani became the first designer to broadcast a fashion show live on the internet.
Click to see a collection of Giorgio Armani clothing