Daily Front Row

2006 October 20

RED Forges Ahead

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(MILAN) Giorgio Armani announced Friday a new development for Armani’s Emporio Armani (PRODUCT) RED collection, the designer’s contribution to the global philanthropy initiative (RED). Armani will join together with Ghana-born modern artist Owusu-Ankomah to create tee shirts and other products for the line.

Owusu-Ankomah is known for his eclectic, contemporary style, which draws on elements as diverse as graffiti and pre-colonial African art. Symbols by the artist signifying Flight, Erotic Balance, and Harmony will be featured on the tees, which retail for $78; 40 percent of gross profits will be donated directly to the Global AIDS Fund.

In other Emporio Armani news, the line is expanding, with new stores opening in Tallinn, Estonia, and a third Russian location in Samara. The Tallinn location is modeled after Armani’s Hong Kong location, while the Samara story is built in the mold of the Emporio Armani on Brompton Road in London.

Next week in Cannes, the Armani Group will also announce a “fast track” duty free expansion of the brand, adding airport locations in Buenos Aires, Frankfurt, Bangkok, and Malpensa.