In a historic first, renowned fashion designer Giorgio Armani will not be present for his two scheduled shows at Milan Fashion Week. At 90 years old, the Italian icon is currently recuperating at home following a brief hospitalization, as confirmed by his company.
The statement from his team highlighted that he had “worked with usual dedication on the collections” and will be observing the menswear shows remotely on Saturday and Monday. This absence marks a significant milestone in Armani’s illustrious career, which has spanned over fifty years. Last year, he hinted at the possibility of retirement in the coming years.
Upcoming Spring-Summer Collections
The upcoming shows are set to showcase the Spring-Summer 2026 collections of the Giorgio Armani brand. In his absence, long-time collaborator and head of menswear design, Leo Dell’Orco, will take center stage to deliver the closing bows.
Future Engagements and Legacy
Despite his current situation, Armani is reported to be in good spirits and anticipates attending the brand’s upcoming presentations in Paris later this June. The year is particularly significant as it marks the 50th anniversary of his fashion house, coinciding with Armani’s own 91st birthday.
Armani, affectionately referred to as ‘Re Giorgio’ or King Giorgio, has established a formidable presence in the luxury fashion sector. Born in Piacenza, Italy, in 1934, he initially pursued a career in medicine before transitioning into fashion, eventually launching his brand alongside his late partner, Sergio Galeotti.
Over the years, his fashion house has diversified into various lines, encompassing haute couture, ready-to-wear, accessories, beauty products, jewelry, interior design, and luxury hotels in major cities worldwide, including Milan, Paris, New York, Tokyo, Seoul, and Shanghai.