Milan, Italy — June 23, 2025 — Giorgio Armani’s Spring 2026 menswear collection debuted at Milan Fashion Week, reaffirming the designer’s enduring influence on contemporary fashion. Despite the notable absence of the 90-year-old fashion icon due to health reasons, the presentation captivated audiences with its refined aesthetic and cultural inspirations.
Armani, who founded his eponymous label in 1975, was unable to attend the show, marking the first time in nearly five decades that he missed a Milan Fashion Week presentation. The designer is currently recuperating at home, having been briefly hospitalized prior to the event. Nevertheless, his presence was felt throughout the collection, which showcased his signature minimalist style infused with global influences.
The runway transformed the Armani/Teatro venue into a serene homage to Pantelleria, the volcanic island off Sicily where Armani spends his summers. The set featured elements reminiscent of the island’s rugged landscape, including black volcanic rocks and a tranquil ocean horizon. This backdrop set the tone for a collection that emphasized relaxation and escapism.
Models donned languid silk tailoring, airy knitwear, and palm-tree prints adorning blazers and canvas bags. The color palette ranged from earthy desert tones to deep blues and urban blacks, reflecting a harmonious blend of natural and urban elements. Accessories such as rope sandals and belts added a beachy flair, while male-female matching looks highlighted the versatility of the designs.
Armani’s longtime collaborator and head of menswear design, Leo Dell’Orco, took the final bow on behalf of the designer. Dell’Orco has worked closely with Armani for over 45 years, ensuring the continuity of the brand’s vision during the designer’s recovery.
The collection also featured pieces from EA7, Armani’s sportswear line, which presented desert-inspired technical garments. This segment emphasized the brand’s commitment to combining functionality with style, catering to the modern man’s dynamic lifestyle.
Celebrity attendees included actors Giancarlo Esposito and Jason Isaacs, as well as Olympic champion Marcell Jacobs and NBA players Kawhi Leonard and Anthony Black. Their presence underscored the global appeal of Armani’s designs and the brand’s relevance across diverse audiences.
Reflecting on the collection, Armani stated, “It seems that the new generations of designers are becoming passionate about my work, and I must say that this is a source of pride for me because it means that I can speak to young creatives who probably weren’t even born in the ’90s. This also means that the authenticity that I have always put into what I do is still reflected today” .
The Spring 2026 menswear show not only celebrated Armani’s legacy but also demonstrated the brand’s ability to evolve while staying true to its core principles. As the fashion industry continues to navigate changing trends and consumer preferences, Armani’s commitment to timeless elegance and cultural appreciation remains a guiding force.