Fashion icon Giorgio Armani will be absent from his two Milan Fashion Week shows for the first time in his illustrious career. The 90-year-old Italian designer, holder of one of the most esteemed labels in the fashion industry, is currently recuperating from a brief hospital stay at home, according to a statement from his company.
Despite his absence, Armani has been actively involved in the development of the collections and will join the menswear shows set for Saturday and Monday through remote access. This marks the first occasion where Armani, who reportedly considered retirement last year, will not be physically present at one of his fashion shows.
Next week’s shows will showcase the Spring-Summer 2026 collections of the luxury brand bearing his name. Leo Dell’Orco, Armani’s long-time collaborator and head of menswear design, is expected to take the closing bows on the designer’s behalf.
Armani, known affectionately as ‘Re Giorgio’, is reportedly in good spirits and plans to attend the brand’s upcoming shows in Paris at the end of June. The upcoming event also coincides with the brand’s 50th-anniversary celebrations, along with Armani’s 91st birthday.
The consummate businessman and fashion pioneer, born in Piacenza, Italy, in 1934, ventured into fashion after initially studying medicine. Along with his late partner, Sergio Galeotti, he established his iconic fashion house. The company has since expanded its influence across various sectors, including haute couture, ready-to-wear fashion, accessories, beauty and makeup products, jewelry, and high-end interior design, along with luxury hotels in major cities worldwide.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cx2k8dynrr0o
