Sì is my tribute to modern femininity, an irresistible combination of grace, strength and independent spirit.

For me, couture is the kingdom of imagination, creativity and experimentation, and this is how I approach it. I do, however, remain pragmatic and realistic.

I started to take care of my body after I turned 50. I never liked how I looked physically because I was too cute, short, with coloring only on my cheeks, the perfect little nose, and then the blue eyes. But I would have preferred to have the look of a tough guy from the wrong side of town - one of those fascinatingly ugly looks.

I believe that my clothes can give people a better image of themselves - that it can increase their feelings of confidence and happiness.

I didn't have a happy childhood.

Through fashion I have shown my interpretation of the competitive spirit by dressing sportsmen and women, choosing to work with both those who are among the world's most renowned athletes and also those who are yet to achieve fame in the arena of sport.

Actually I am very glad that people can buy Armani - even if it's a fake. I like the fact that I'm so popular around the world.