Giorgio Armani has hinted at who could one day take over his empire. The iconic fashion designer founded his namesake label back in 1975 and over four decades later, it continues to be one of the most successful and luxurious brands in the business.
After showing as part of London Fashion Week on Sunday, Armani spoke to Italian TV channel RaiNews24 about the future of his business and who will be succeeding the 83-year-old.
"I have several little heirs," he explained, referring to his two nieces, nephew and long-time assistant Pantaleo Dell'Orco. "(These are) people who could do good things following up on my path.
The designer with his niece Roberta Armani
Liam Payne and Ellie Goulding welcome Emporio Armani back at London Fashion Week
"However, clearly in the world we live in, an heir is important because they have to be somehow visible, must attend evening social occasions and be photographed."
Quizzed on whether they have to be of the same heritage as him, Armani said not necessarily.
"It's not a given," he said. "Let's remember that in the 1970s-1980s, fashion designers were French and they were the ones we followed."
Giorgio Armani founded his label in 1975
Until that day comes though, the style expert continues to keep busy, with multiple other ventures to his name besides his various clothing labels.
Armani reveals plans to go fur-free in future collections
Earlier this year he announced his plans to launch a competition called the New Bond for British fashion students alongside the British Fashion Council, which will see three winners design a capsule collection for his Emporio Armani line. It was inspired by his decision to show in the British capital for the first time in 11 years, as well as celebrating his new store opening on London's Bond Street.
