MILAN, Sep 28, 2005/ FW/ --- He might not be one of the ‘Magnificent Seven,’ but Giorgio Armani could really cut a dress… and a gown… and a suit… In fact, you name it, and the Italian design maestro has probably done it skillfully and magnificently.

With Tina Turner and Sophia Loren sitting front row, Giorgio Armani presented his Spring / Summer 2006 collection full of feminine shapes and done with classic tailoring proving once again that he is still ‘on top his game’ as Americans would say.

With the collection aptly titled ‘Today,’ the Italian couturier looked into his own archives and reinvented himself, translating the silhouettes and style that has made him famous into the needs of today’s women.

Tapping first into menswear, the one that made him a household name, Giorgio Armani created slim fitting short jackets worn over a simple shell with an obi-sized band at the waist, then cutting the trousers into a more feminine shape that drapes perfectly over a woman’s figure.

The one-button jacket was translated into collarless short-cropped top that can also work as a coat, while the double-breasted jacket was made into a slim-fitting long-sleeved blouse with wide flat panels on the placket and hem that closes with a tiny buckle.

It was the trench coat that was changed radically to fit the feminine shape. Extra wide lapels and extra wide collars, with a one-snap closure and asymmetrical hemline, this piece alone is a statement of Giorgio Armani’s inventiveness when it comes to clothes and dressing.

The separates are as delectable and mouthwatering as the pantsuit sets. Skirts were layered with soft ruffles just reaching the above the knees. These ruffles became wavy golden embellishments at times; not looking like ruffles at all, but like the soft waves of the Mediterranean.

The one-shouldered cocktail dresses proved to be just a prelude to the gowns, which by the way is where Giorgio Armani excelled the most.

Beaded and embroidered, these slinky gowns with deep V-necklines and bustier bodices can be shown during the Paris Haute Couture season where Armani also shows.

One thing is sure; the ateliers were busy putting on those encrusted jewels and beads for this collection.

So, Giorgio Armani who had not said a word ever since the ‘Magnificent Seven’ list came out made his statement today with this groundbreaking collection that can only be described as MAGNIFICENT!

Giorgio Armani

Giorgio Armani

Giorgio Armani

Giorgio Armani

Giorgio Armani