14 JANUARY 2002
Giorgio Armani, the undisputed doyen of sleek, pared-down fashion, has launched a broadside on consumerism, saying that fashion should be “for the people, and not just for those few who can afford the most expensive things.” The Milanese designer, who numbers Jodie Foster, Samuel L Jackson, Michelle Pfeiffer and Lady Helen Taylor among his fans, called today’s “rampant and desperate consumerism” anti-democratic and dangerous.

Giorgio Armani set himself apart from his fellow designers, claiming that the low price of a pair of Armani jeans – a mere £100 – was proof of his own democratic credentials. What he failed to mention, however, was the cost of some of his garments – a £15,000 price tag for one of his sublime beaded frocks is not uncommon.

Giorgio’s attack on his own industry has baffled many a fashion commentator. “It is rather an odd remark,” said British Vogue editor Alexandra Shulman, “because Giorgio Armani Collection clothes are extremely expensive. He does have his jeans line and Emporio Armani, which are less expensive but still by no means cheap.”