In an unprecedented moment for the global fashion industry, legendary designer Giorgio Armani will be absent from this year’s Milan Fashion Week for the first time in his career.
The 90-year-old founder and creative force behind the Armani empire is currently recovering at home following a brief hospital stay, according to a statement released by his fashion house.
Though he remains in close contact with his design team and has actively contributed to the collections being presented, his absence from the physical runway represents a significant shift in the rhythm of the fashion calendar.
Giorgio Armani, often dubbed “Re Giorgio” (King Giorgio) for his decades-long dominance and influence in high fashion, has not missed a single Milan Fashion Week event since he first entered the global spotlight in the 1970s.
Known for his hands-on involvement in all aspects of his brand, from tailoring to runway production, his absence is both a personal and symbolic departure from tradition. At 90, and turning 91 on July 11, his withdrawal from the fashion week circuit, however temporary, comes as a moment of reflection for an industry shaped by his vision of minimalism, elegance, and understated glamour.
The Spring/Summer 2026 Emporio Armani collection still bore the unmistakable hallmarks of Armani’s design philosophy. The collection, unveiled in his absence, drew inspiration from global travel and relaxed sophistication.
Fabrics like crepe and linen dominated the runway, with silhouettes ranging from flowing tunics and balloon trousers to mosaic prints reminiscent of North African motifs.
Even the athletic EA7 sub-line remained in conversation with the broader themes, integrating desert tones and sandstorm visuals into a narrative of refined adventure.
These creative decisions, developed under Armani’s guidance before his hospitalisation, demonstrate that while the man himself was not physically present, his spirit still infused every look.
Longtime collaborator and menswear director Leo Dell’Orco took Armani’s place on the runway, taking bows on his behalf. Dell’Orco’s prominent appearance on the catwalk sparked speculation that Armani may be gradually preparing for a generational handover.
The designer, who owns his fashion empire outright and has resisted acquisition by luxury conglomerates, has long indicated that when the time came, succession would come from within his inner circle. The public appearance of Dell’Orco, a confidante of nearly 40 years, subtly reinforced this idea of continuity without abrupt disruption.
The Emporio Armani show drew significant attention not just for the fashion, but also for its star-studded audience. Olympic gold medallist Marcell Jacobs, Netflix actors André Lamoglia and Michael Cooper Jr., and NBA stars Kawhi Leonard and Anthony Black were among the notable attendees, highlighting Armani’s continued relevance in pop culture and sports.
The designer’s absence was acknowledged with quiet respect, as fashion insiders and guests expressed admiration for his resilience and enduring commitment to design, even while recuperating.
Though his recovery appears to be progressing well, the incident underscores the reality of aging leadership in an industry obsessed with youth and reinvention. Giorgio Armani has previously hinted at the toll age is taking, stating in past interviews that he understands the need to step back eventually.
What’s Next for Giorgio Armani
Giorgio Armani is not retiring, at least not yet. While he won’t attend Milan’s fashion shows in person, insiders have suggested he may still participate in upcoming events, depending on his health. Most eyes are now focused on Paris Couture Week, where his attendance is not ruled out.
Whether or not Giorgio Armani makes an appearance, the Armani name remains securely anchored in global fashion, with plans for the brand’s continuity reportedly already mapped out.
For now, his loyal team, under the watchful eye of Dell’Orco, continues to steer the house of Armani through one of its most poignant chapters, paying homage to its founder not just in name, but in every stitch and silhouette.
