Giorgio Armani Misses Milan Fashion Week for First Time in 50 Years

Milan, Italy – Renowned fashion designer Giorgio Armani made history on June 23, 2025, by missing Milan Fashion Week for the first time in five decades. The 90-year-old designer opted to forgo the runway preview for his Spring-Summer 2026 menswear collection due to an undisclosed medical condition, although he remained actively involved in the design process and watched the show via live stream. This unprecedented absence marks a significant moment in the fashion industry, reflecting the designer's enduring influence and the resilience of his fashion house, Giorgio Armani, established 50 years ago.

The menswear collection showcased a harmonious blend of summer-inspired textures, geometrical designs, and the signature relaxed silhouettes that have defined Armani's work throughout his illustrious career. The show concluded with Leo Dell’Orco, the head of menswear who has been with Armani for 45 years, taking the runway bow in place of the iconic designer. Dell’Orco reported that Armani was pleased with the collection, particularly noting the inclusion of male-female couples dressed in coordinating outfits, a testament to the versatility of the line.

The showcased collection featured wide pleated trousers paired with an array of softly constructed jackets, including casual double-breasted designs embellished with shawl collars and lightweight leather coats. Innovative styling choices included vests designed to replace traditional shirts, allowing for seamless transitions from professional to casual settings. The collection’s strength lay in its textural diversity, incorporating materials such as raw linen, woven leather, soft suede, and flowing silk, which collectively created a rich visual experience.

From afar, the ensembles appeared monochromatic; however, closer inspection revealed a sophisticated blending of various geometric patterns and textures, adding depth and intrigue to each look. The exotic elements were reflected in the incorporation of Nehru collars, tunics, and kimono jackets, subtly hinting at Armani's passion for travel while maintaining a cohesive aesthetic.

The collection was further accentuated by delicate decorative pins that caught the light, serving as the sole adornment amidst the minimalist styling. Beach-inspired accessories, including rope sandals and belts, complemented the collection’s summer theme. The showroom setting was enveloped in Mediterranean blue, featuring installations of obsidian black stones that mirrored a sophisticated color palette, ranging from washed-out desert shades to deep urban blacks and grays.

The front row of the show attracted notable figures, including actors Giancarlo Esposito and Jason Isaacs, highlighting the significant cultural impact of Armani's work within and beyond the fashion industry. This year’s Milan Fashion Week, particularly marked by the absence of its iconic figure, serves as a poignant reminder of the evolving landscape of fashion and the enduring legacy of one of its most prominent figures.