MILAN, Sep 29, 2004/ FW/ --- ‘Shocking!’ announced the catwalk backdrop for the Giorgio Armani Spring 2005 show. And shocking it was, as the design maestro proposed going to haute couture when others have abandoned the made-to-measure craft.

And went haute, he did! With hand beading, elaborate headdresses, intricate details, exquisite embroidery and embossing, Giorgio Armani at 70 is as prolific as a designer as when he started several decades ago.

From the shantung long skirts to the flowing white trousers, to the snug fitting short-cropped jackets embossed and embroidered, to the layered gowns with delicate prints, the Armani ladies never had so good.

It was a red carpet affair, a walk in the park, or just spending time with family and friends, Giorgio Armani dressed his ladies for morning, noon and night without missing a beat.

Everything gelled; everything made sense although the inspiration was definitely eclectic. There were jackets that were definitely Oriental – Cathay, Japanese, Hindi. Then there was the Spanish senorita and the Parisienne lady.

Mother nature showed her head in the floral and fruit prints. Even Hollywood made it, as exemplified in the strapless, bodice hugging yet fluid gowns, definitely for the screen siren.

“Personally I'd really enjoy showing in Paris with the haute couture crowd. But first I want to work at this and see if we sell," the design maestro told reporters yesterday before the show.

And yes, it will surely sell! His very upscale clientele will have no problems opening their pocketbooks for these lovely frocks.

Haute couture might have Versace and Emanuel Ungaro, two of its bright stars but with Giorgio Armani on the road to Paris, new life had been breathed to the made-to-measure craft!

Giorgio Armani

Giorgio Armani

Giorgio Armani

Giorgio Armani