Titled "a little gift to New York", the designer is clearly making a point that he has no intention of going anywhere for sometime.

"A [lifetime] career award signifies closure or a conclusion," he goes on. "But I just want to be precise that it's not in my case. It's an important recognition, but honestly I would have preferred to receive an award for the best collection."

While accepting an award, he said, "I am, of course, honored, but I am not finished yet." Currently considering taking up with a major industry player such as L'Oreal or LVMH, having admitted that he can not be bothered with an initial public offering, the 70-year-old designer is determined not to impose too much responsibility on his family when he eventually does retire.

Getting emotional, Armani says, "Every day that passes, I'm obliged to reflect even more. Naturally, every day is one less to live and one less to decide. However, for me to make a decision [about the future] today is truly impossible."

All goes to show that he’s here to stay, and for long.