Designer Giorgio Armani designs custom wardrobe for Alicia Keys’ As I Am world tour and launches the Emporio Armani Alicia Jean.
Giorgio Armani has added his iconic creative style to Alicia Keys’ upcoming “As I Am” world tour by designing a custom wardrobe for his friend, the multi-talented Grammy winner, songwriter, performer and producer.

Alicia Keys’ wardrobe includes three signature looks inspired by the Giorgio Armani and Emporio Armani women’s collections, in five color variations.

The first look is a Giorgio Armani crocodile embossed leather vest, accented with Swarovski crystal buckles. The vest is paired with custom-made Emporio Armani Jeans that feature a lacquered finish. Giorgio Armani has now named this the Alicia jean as a tribute to Alicia Keys.

Keys’ second look is an Emporio Armani sequined tunic with crystal-beaded fringe, again paired with custom lacquered jeans. The finale outfit is a tiered silk taffeta top with circular pleats embellished with Swarovski beading. The silhouette will be worn with silk jersey cigarette trousers. The color palette includes white, black, gold, crimson, platinum and aubergine.

Keys’ dancers and musicians will wear a variety of looks from the Emporio Armani, Emporio Armani (PRODUCT) RED and Armani Exchange collections.

“Combining a magical voice with a captivating onstage presence, Alicia is a performer we will justifiably be comparing with the great Aretha Franklin in years to come. I am proud to be collaborating with her on the wardrobe design for her As I Am world tour,” commented Giorgio Armani.

The designer’s friendship with Alicia Keys’ has grown over the years through a series of collaborations, including special designs for her red carpet appearances at the 2006 Grammy Awards, the 2007 American Music Awards and Alicia’s own Black Ball. Fundraising initiatives have also been an important part of their relationship, with Keys presenting at the launch of Giorgio Armani’s Emporio Armani (Product) Red collection at his One Night Only event in London in 2006. Alicia Keys then partnered with Giorgio Armani for the Fashion Rocks for the Prince’s Trust charity event at London’s Royal Albert Hall last October. In turn, Giorgio Armani has supported Alicia Keys’ Black Ball both in 2006 and 2007.

The “As I Am” tour kicks off in Glasgow, Scotland on February 25, 2008 and continues throughout Europe, the United States, Asia, Australia, New Zealand, Africa, Central and South America.