For James Reid, one of the most memorable moments in his fashion journey was meeting legendary Italian designer Giorgio Armani in person during Milan Fashion Week.
The actor-singer looked back on the experience during the official grand opening of EA7 Emporio Armani at SM Mall of Asia on September 16, 2026, where he served as the celebrity VIP guest and led the ribbon-cutting ceremony.
The event carried even more significance following the passing of Giorgio Armani on September 4, 2025, at the age of 91 in Milan.
Speaking to PEP.ph (Philippine Entertainment Portal) and other members of the press, James recalled his encounter with one of fashion’s most influential figures.
James attended the Emporio Armani show at Milan Fashion Week in January 2024 and was able to meet the designer after the runway presentation.
"Yes, two years ago in Milan, actually, I got to meet Mr. Armani himself on the catwalk after the show, which was quite special, meeting him in person for the very first time at Fashion Week.
"It was a huge honor to be able to be there, and I hope to get to go back."
JAMES REID ON FILIPINO CELEBS AT INTERNATIONAL FASHION WEEK
Having represented the Philippines at several international fashion events, James said it's rewarding to see more Filipinos gaining recognition on the global stage, not only in fashion but across different industries.
"I feel lucky to be Filipino. And I think the Philippines has so much talent across so many different industries, and we're really being recognized.
"Even before the recent years when so many Filipinos started getting tapped to go overseas for Fashion Week, film festivals, and so many different things, I already saw that appreciation.
"I spent some time in the U.S., and they know Filipinos as some of the most up-to-date, fashion-forward, and music-centric people.
"So I think the world is just catching up with the Filipinos."
According to James, international Fashion Week appearances remain a goal, even if his schedule has become increasingly packed with acting and music projects.
"It's actually always in my plans. But, you know, a lot of things come up. I was actually hoping to go this year, but there were so many other projects happening at the same time.
"I can't complain. I'm super happy with how the year turned out, with the teleserye, the movie, my album, everything.
"But Fashion Week is always in the plans, so hopefully January."
JAMES REID'S PERSONAL STYLE AND FASHION TIP
James often steps out in carefully curated looks for major fashion events, but he described his personal style as far more relaxed and effortless.
"If I could describe my personal fashion in a few words, I think, one, it has to be comfortable.
"Two, I like something that feels classic. And when I mean classic, I mean a little bit retro, too.
"And then the other thing is I like it to feel, right now, especially, very kind of rugged, you know, very relaxed and rugged.
"I think what I go for the most is something where it feels like I'm not trying too much."
That approach has evolved over the years with the help of his stylist, John Lozano, whom he credited for encouraging him to step outside his comfort zone and explore different sides of fashion.
"So how it works is that I have a stylist, and we argue a lot about it," he quipped.
"But yes, John is incredible, and he always has a vision for me that, even if I don't see it at first, I'm always willing to explore and try new things.
"It's because of John that I've been able to explore so much in fashion, that I've been able to go to Milan and Paris, and have such a career in fashion. So it's been wonderful."
Despite their occasional debates, James said they have found a way to balance creativity with comfort.
"I think it's different every time, but it usually lands on something like this: if this is where I'm comfortable, let's go a little bit past that. I think that's where we compromise."
As the face of the EA7 Emporio Armani launch, James was also asked for a styling tip on how people can take athleisure wear from a casual daytime outfit to something suitable for the evening.
For him, the answer is surprisingly simple: accessories.
In his words: "Elevating athleisure wear for day to night. I'd say accessories.
"I think that's an easy way to elevate the look without having to change too much.
"For example, shades can add a lot to an outfit and help break it away from that very comfy, home look. So yeah, accessories."
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