KUALA LUMPUR (July 7): The fashion world is certainly not short on icons, but few dominate as discreetly yet powerfully as Giorgio Armani does. From a simple childhood in the small town of Piacenza, on the banks of the River Po, he went on to grow his eponymous label into a veritable billion-dollar empire that encompasses not just fashion but also hotels, furniture, fragrances — the accidental evangelist of an effortlessly elegant way of life that celebrates dressing with style and a sense of practicality. 

The indefatigable Armani, who turns 90 on July 11 and is himself one of Italy’s richest men, remains a rare bird — influential yet independent — in a sea of conglomerate-owned maisons. His brand, which he co-founded in 1975, approaches its golden jubilee next year, and talk of succession planning is still tightly kept under wraps. And, yet, for the air of mystery surrounding its future, the present is still where it matters most for the mogul. 

Malaysia’s art scene is all geared up for a culture-filled week. The 139-year-old Royal Selangor is commemorating the 20th anniversary of its visitor’s centre with an onsite jazz festival. The inaugural event on July 14 will feature acts by 17 bands across four stages, as well as jam sessions, film screenings and quizzes. For those planning a family day out, there are picks aplenty from food trucks parked at the venue in Setapak, KL. Jazz buffs hoping to expand their collection can rummage for prized memorabilia at booths selling rare vinyl records. As for the shows, sit back and groove to the music, or join in and create some yourself. 

As Five Arts Centre turns 40, we also take a look at its exciting line-up this month. To mark its milestone anniversary, the institution will host the Arts Producers Workshop, led by member June Tan. The producer and screenwriter — who has been a stage and tour manager, as well as produced numerous local and international co-productions since 1997, including Baling, Version 2020, GE14 and A Notional History — will address gaps in the local performing-arts ecosystem.

Read about these and more in our July 8, 2024 issue of Options, out with The Edge Malaysia weekly.

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