Fact: To wear a Giorgio Armani suit is to broadcast to the world, "I've made it." But now, more than ever, what a woman wears on her feet or carries in hand says more about her degree of success than the tag in her blazer. Here, MC Creative Director Nina Garcia discusses the art of accessorizing with the patron saint of power dressing.
Nina Garcia: I'm a big believer that accessories can make or break a look. What are some of the biggest mistakes women make in terms of their shoes and bags?
Giorgio Armani: Proportions—it's easy to get them wrong by getting carried away with current trends. There is such a thing as a bag being too big or too small regardless of its shape, and the effect [in relation to your outfit] can at times be ridiculous. The same thing applies to shoes. Extremely high heels are mostly advised for tall women. Also, it's not a good idea to match your shoes with a bag too stringently. Go for subtle similarity.
NG : We require so much from our accessories now. Between the office, cocktails, and running errands, they can take a beating! What's the secret to buying a piece that lasts?
GA: It would be great if there were a formula that could be applied, but given the long-term success of certain iconic bags, there is some reasoning to be done. It must be distinguishable to the eye for its unique workmanship rather than brand visibility. As far as color, it should be in style.
NG: If you were to pare down a woman's arsenal of accessories to just a few shoes and bags, what would the must-haves be?
GA: A sporty citywear style, like moccasins or men's lace-ups and a shoulder bag. For the evening, a little more pizzazz with heels and a black clutch with golden or crystal accents. For the summer, light-weight sandals and a colorful shopper bag. In theory, each would satisfy every need.
NG: Do you find that there's a big difference between the working woman's look in America and that in Italy?
GA: American style tends to be more of a dress code. I have always admired the practical intelligence that it expresses, like that of commuting to the workplace wearing comfortable sneakers, then slipping on a pair of elegant heels once you've arrived. The dress codes in Italy are much more confusing and often mistake carelessness for a sense of freedom.
NG: After nearly 40 years designing, why do you think your designs are still so relevant?
GA: 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. It wasn't to show off; it was a style that was basic, simple, rigorous—not the exclusive prerogative of a successful manager, but rather of anyone who wanted to approach a career seriously.
Stay In The Know
Marie Claire email subscribers get intel on fashion and beauty trends, hot-off-the-press celebrity news, and more. Sign up here.
-
I Work Out 5 Days a Week—These Are the Brands I Wear on Repeat
Sponsor Content Created With Nordstrom
By Emma Walsh Published
-
Princess Kate Will Be "Ready to Talk" About Her Absence When She Gets Back to Work, Source Claims
The Palace has released very few details about her illness and recovery.
By Iris Goldsztajn Published
-
Princess Kate Was Allegedly Spotted Looking "Happy, Relaxed and Healthy" at a Farm Shop This Weekend
Anonymous onlookers provided this description to 'The Sun.'
By Iris Goldsztajn Published
-
Meet the Designers Keeping the Art of Craftsmanship Alive
In today's murky fashion landscape of discourse and 'cores, to be a revolutionary is to tune out the chatter and focus on your design. Here, a vanguard group of designers who prioritize their skills above all else.
By Emma Childs Published
-
Exclusive: Rothy’s Designs Its First Wedge Sandal
The footwear brand just released its first wedge sandal.
By Lauren Tappan Published
-
Sherri McMullen Is the Oakland Boutique Owner Redefining Retail
From mentoring emerging brands to spotting the next big designer, we chat with the entrepreneur about everything from TikTok trends to the current state of the industry.
By Emma Childs Published
-
Colorful Cowboys and Celebs Galore: Pharrell William's Latest for Louis Vuitton Men's
A special shoutout goes to Williams' revamped Speedy bags.
By India Roby Published
-
This Under-the-Radar Jacket on Amazon Is My Newest Winter Obsession
And, no, it's not the "Amazon coat."
By Jaimie Potters Published
-
The Best Black T-Shirts to Buy In Bulk
Done right, the black tee is the most versatile item in your wardrobe.
By Taylor Ayers Published
-
30 Cozy and Covetable Blanket Scarves to Wrap Up In
It’s as cozy as can be.
By Sara Holzman Published
-
11 Graphic T-Shirts From Amazon You'd Actually Wear
Cheeky, not cheesy.
By Marina Liao Published