PARIS, Jul 6, 2006/ FW/ --- Kicking off the Paris Fall 2006 Haute Couture season yesterday, Giorgio Armani looked east for inspiration transforming the early 19th century Chinese costumes into contemporary dresses and gowns generously infused with the well-known Armani aesthetics.

Light and breezy, the Italian design maestro dressed his ladies in neutral shades, showing a lot of restraint wherein tailoring center stage. The requisite embroidery and beading were present, but radiantly controlled.

Day dresses featured the famous Armani suit jackets that were cut snugly, defining the waist. Shoulders were sharp and slightly gathered to give it a feminine touch. It was signature Armani.

Trouser suits made an appearance too, this time inspired by the Chinese chinos, made luxurious with fur and animal skin.

Still, it was with the gowns that Armani truly delighted his audience. Slim with the shoulders and the waist emphasized, they can be worn by women from 16 to 60, disproving some haute couture detractors’ claim that the genre is only for old women.

The timeless and ageless quality of the collection make it very attractive for women of all ages who appreciate fine tailoring and artistry of the craft.

Giorgio Armani Privé

Giorgio Armani Privé

Giorgio Armani Privé

Giorgio Armani Privé