One of the most common questions we are asked is ‘what is Armani Exchange?‘ Unfortunately, it’s not the simplest of questions to find an answer to. If you do a search online, you’re most likely going to end up being more confused due to Armani’s complex segmentation. So here we are going to finally clear up the age-old question, Armani vs Armani Exchange: What is the actual difference? Don’t forget to also check out our extensive Armani Exchange: collection!
QUICK ACCESS GUIDE
- What is Armani?
- What is Armani Exchange?
- What is Emporio Armani?
- Giorgio Armani vs Armani Exchange
- Emporio Armani vs Armani Exchange
SO WHAT IS ARMANI?
Giorgio Armani created the prestigious Italian fashion house in 1975 and since then the company has created numerous lines to reach a wide range of people. To get the best understanding of what Armani is and how Armani Exchange is different, you need to understand the breakdown of the brand.
Up until 2017, the Armani enterprise consisted of a vast number of sub-brands which included favourites like Armani Jeans, Armani Collezioni and Armani Privé. Due to mass confusion, it was decided to end a number of these labels and have them integrated within the three main Armani lines below:
Giorgio Armani: This label is Armani’s signature high-end brand which specialised in ready-to-wear men’s and women’s clothing. This line is of a higher price point and not easy to come across in a store. Giorgio Armani also creates a cosmetic and scent range. The original top-tier brand, Armani Privé was folded and now lies within the Giorgio Armani label. So if you hear that a celebrity is wearing a ‘custom’ Armani suit or dress at an event like the Oscar’s, they will be wearing custom Giorgio Armani.
Emporio Armani: Another ready-to-wear label but this one is aimed towards younger individuals. It’s had many celebrity endorsements and is relatively easy to buy. This label also includes another sub-line, EA7 and has encapsulated the Armani Jeans brand.
Armani Exchange: This label is Armani’s mass-market option for the fashion-conscious. It’s widely available and at a more obtainable price point. It also took over parts of both the Armani Jeans and Armani Collezioni labels.
Armani Exchange has nailed essential items that have a more affordable price point so everyday people can access the Armani brand. It’s commonly found to be the entry brand for people first developing their style and getting into designer clothing.
The A|X branding has become iconic within the Armani family and is often featured on the garments, giving a clear slogan vibe to the pieces.
GIORGIO ARMANI VS ARMANI EXCHANGE
Even though both of these brands are part of the Armani fashion house, there are a lot of big differences. As Giorgio Armani is one of the original labels, it is also the most luxe and high quality. Look at the table below to see the outline of Giorgio Armani vs Armani Exchange.
EMPORIO ARMANI VS ARMANI EXCHANGE
Both of these labels are in the lower tier of the Armani pyramid in terms of price. They are also often confused with each other as they share the same initials so check out the outline of Emporio Armani vs Armani Exchange below: