Talking fashion with Roberta Armani
Submitted by lindsaylarin on March 10, 2010 – 2:51 pmView Comments
Talking with Roberta Armani, the niece of legendary fashion designer Giorgio Armani, is like talking with a good friend.
Her warm smile is matched with equal parts sophistication, beauty, elegance and a kind spirit that fills a crowded room like a breath of fresh air.
A few sentences in and it becomes increasingly difficult to remember this is the same woman who considers Tom and Katy (Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes) good friends and has worked her way up to become a director of the Giorgio Armani company.
Growing up in the world of high fashion, Roberta Armani emerged herself in the study of language. She soon began to accompany her uncle to social events where she acted as his translator. She quickly formed relationships with the celebrity cliental and took on the role as public relations for the entertainment industry.
She has been hitting the red carpet ever since.
“I enjoy traveling and attending events. I have become the traveler of the company. It’s important to meet people all over the world and to breathe different cultures,” she explained. “That way, when I return to Milan where my uncle designs, I can transfer him my emotions and the things I learn while away.”
Roberta Armani flew to the Seattle area this past week to present a private showing of the Armani 2010 Spring/Summer Collection at Neiman Marcus. The exclusive event catered to a small group of 50 guests and featured an intimate runway show and luncheon on the first floor of Neiman Marcus at The Bravern in Bellevue.
This marked her first trip to the Seattle and Eastside area.
“I arrived last night and immediately took the time to walk around to see a little of the city. I love it here,” she proclaimed. “There is a beautiful energy about this place. It’s very free. People look very smart and bright here. This is my first time to Bellevue, and seeing the mountains and the area and how beautiful the houses are, it’s so clean. The air is so fresh.”
Prior to her arrival in Bellevue, Roberta Armani made an appearance at the Oscars, attended her good friend Leonardo DiCaprio’s New York premiere screening of Shutter Island and worked with Lady Gaga at the Grammy Awards.
“I consider many celebrities my friends,” she said. “Do I get star-struck still? Sure. Tom will always be Tom Cruise to me. He is a true movie star.”
When asked who she would like to dress if given the chance, she was quick to answer.
“I would love to work with Edward Norton. I think he is one of the brightest actors out there,” she gushed. “Also, Gwyneth Paltrow. I think she is so beautiful and sophisticated.”
Although Roberta Armani has worked along side her uncle for the past 20 years, she still remains inspired by his hard work and dedication to his craft.
“It was an actual process for me to learn the company and now represent the Armani name,” she explained. “When I was younger, I didn’t understand my uncle working all the time, day and night. Now I understand. He has taught me a lot and I admire him in so many ways. He is still on top of everything and has so much energy for his designs.”
Roberta Armani at the Neiman Marcus private fashion show and luncheon on March 9.
Fashion according to Roberta Armani
Q. Describe your style?
A. The more I grow up, the more I gain a fashion sense. I am not a fan of too much flash or skin. I think it’s far more important to be elegant and covered, yet still be intriguing and sexy. We should go back to the more refined look.
Q. What defines a person’s style?
A. First of all a person’s soul. If you are not in tune with your soul, it will come off awkward. Elegance is more about the outside than the inside. It should never be the dress wearing you. It should be you wearing the dress.
Q. Do you enjoy styling men or women more?
A. Men are easier to dress especially men like David Beckham who understands fashion and has his own style. He comes to us and already knows what he likes.
Q. What is the number one fashion tip your uncle taught you?
A. He taught me that less is more. Always take off three things before you leave the house. Keep your look simple and defined.
