Armani has eyes for Victoria

MELBOURNE: The Victorian capital has been identified as a possible growth market for high end luxury brand Emporio Armani. The Italy-headquartered fashion house has recently secured its first site in Melbourne, with a new boutique in Collins Street set to open later next month. The new store, which will host a cocktail launch on November 25, covers two floors and occupies 280 square metres of space.

Designed by Giorgio Armani together with his inhouse team of architects, the store follows the same design concept as other Armani stores opened in London, Seoul, Bangkok, Taipei, Milan, Paris, Warsaw and Boston.

Highlights include a gloss black-lacquered wall made of steel panelling, a majestic staircase and black stone flooring.

The store will offer the complete Armani range, covering  formal and casual men's and women's collections, sportswear, leather accessories, watches, eyewear and jewellery.

In a statement, Armani described Australia as a "fascinating country".

"A perfect mix of beuatiful landscapes and vibrant cities which I witnessed during my memorable trip last year. I'm truly excited to reinforce the presence of my Emporio Armani line by opening in a dynamic city like Melbourne."