Giorgio Armani launched his own label in 1974, but did not become a household name until he dressed Richard Gere in the 1980 film American Gigolo.
The name Giorgio Armani was thought, during the 1980s, to be synonymous with style.
He has influenced fashion on many levels, including Mary Quant s mini-skirt and Christian Dior s New Look.
Following his hugely successful fashion collections, Armani expanded into other areas including eyewear and fragrances. Giorgio Armani s perfume collections reinforce the sense of luxury associated with the brand with names like Emporio Armani Diamonds and Idole D Armani.
In 2001 and 2005, Forbes named him the most successful Italian designer, estimating his net worth at over $5 billion.
