Star-Studded Lineup at Armani’s Milan Final Collection Showcase
Giorgio Armani’s Final Tribute in Milan
In Milan, Italy, Hollywood luminaries gathered for a poignant occasion: the Giorgio Armani show on Sunday evening. This event marked the last collection that the revered Italian designer created before his passing.
Initially planned as a celebration for the 50th anniversary of the Armani label, the show transformed into a heartfelt homage after Armani’s death on September 4, 2023, at the age of 91. The gorgeous Pinacoteca di Brera, an esteemed art gallery, hosted the event, which also featured over 120 of his iconic designs as part of an anniversary exhibition.
A Touch of Remembrance
During the show, paper lanterns adorned the courtyard, evoking memories of the chapel where fans paid their final respects. Models gracefully walked under the gallery’s historic portico, and actress Cate Blanchett expressed the emotion of the evening: “This moment, this atmosphere speaks for itself; there are many memories here tonight,” she shared with AFP.
Inspired Designs
The collection drew inspiration from two locations significant to Armani: the city of Milan, where he resided across from the Pinacoteca, and the tranquil island of Pantelleria, where he owned a holiday retreat. The line featured classic suits alongside dazzling red-carpet gowns in soft hues of green, blue, and purple, reflecting the essence of light, land, and sea.
The show notes articulated this vision: “Everything seems fluid, light, as if ready to yield to the island’s winds.” The event showcased models who had graced the catwalk for Armani over the decades, epitomizing his vision of femininity.
A Memorable Send-off
Following the runway show, guests enjoyed a tour of the exhibition, which showcased the designer’s legendary outfits intermingled with Italian art masterpieces. One notable piece was the suit worn by Richard Gere in “American Gigolo,” a landmark film for both the actor and Armani.
Notable attendees included Samuel L. Jackson, James Norton, Toni Servillo, and Zhang Ziyi. Director Spike Lee referred to Armani as a “Renaissance man,” emphasizing the designer’s vast influence.
Lasting Legacy
Guests dressed in formal attire received a white T-shirt featuring an image of Armani with their invitations. The show’s grand finale showcased a stunning long, shimmering deep-blue gown adorned with the designer’s portrait, which earned a standing ovation from the audience of 700.
Giorgio Armani’s niece, Silvana Armani, and his long-time collaborator, Leo Dell’Orco, shared a moment of appreciation at the conclusion of the show. The profound emotion in the air was unmistakable.
The collection is described as a tribute to style and an acknowledgment of the conclusion of an era, opening the door for new possibilities. Throughout his remarkable career, Armani exercised meticulous control over his multi-billion-dollar fashion empire, which encompassed everything from haute couture to hospitality.
Even during health struggles that kept him from some summer shows, he stayed diligently connected with his team. In his will, he expressed a desire for his company to either merge with a major fashion group or to be publicly traded.
This show served as the crowning event of Milan Fashion Week, although the schedule extends to Monday. Other esteemed Italian fashion houses like Prada, Gucci, Fendi, and Dolce & Gabbana unveiled their spring/summer 2026 collections in the city this week.
What were your impressions of this unforgettable tribute to Giorgio Armani?
