Next winter marks return of classic Armani suit

MILAN (AP) — Next winter marks the "return of the classic suit." That's just what Giorgio Armani does best.

Fame came to the designer in the 1970s with his invention of the lining-less jacket. Shortly afterwards Armani became a fashion icon when he dressed Richard Gere for his role in the 1980 film "American Gigolo." Ever since, an Armani suit has been a must among the jet set.

The designer showed his latest collection Tuesday, the last day of the current menswear previews in Milan. It featured super-light single and double-breasted suits with tailored trousers. Suit jackets and pants may appear to be the same, but techno treatments mean the textures may be slightly different.

The same contemporary craftsmanship was used to enhance the luxurious feel of a traditional tuxedo.

In the sportswear department for winter 2013-2014, Armani offers structured leather coats and jackets using modern technology that recreates an age-old Italian tanning process. For the ski set — or anyone in a city blizzard — he provides a water-resistant hooded parka with a cozy fur lining.

Armani sticks to his urban color guns using black, warm grays and shades of brown.

The surprise effect comes in the recurring flashes of ruby red, for pants, jackets or just a touch of bright detail.