Giorgio Armani

When I started Giorgio Armani in the mid-'70s, I realized that women needed a way to dress that was equivalent to that of men - something that would give them dignity, an attitude that would help them handle their work life.

I believe that my clothes can give people a better image of themselves - that it can increase their feelings of confidence and happiness.

The goal I seek is to have people refine their style through my clothing without having them become victims of fashion.

These designers have no reserve. They've chosen a path and thrown themselves onto it head first, regardless of everything. Whether or not their designs are sellable or vulgar. As long as it's new and people talk about it. That is the truth.

Elegance is not catching somebody's eyes, it's staying in somebody's memory

Remain true to yourself and your philosophy. Changing in the face of adversity will in fact diminish your credibility with your customers.

The essence of style is a simple way of saying something complex.

I like to think that I can introduce people to the idea of simplicity and elegance.

Remember that, in the end, the customer doesn't know, or care, if you are small or large as an organization - she or he only focuses on the garment hanging on the rail in the store.

The difference between style and fashion is quality.

I love things that age well - things that don't date, that stand the test of time and that become living examples of the absolute best.

Never in my wildest dreams did I entertain the idea that I would become a fashion designer.