MILAN (AP) - Giorgio Armani hosted an intimate salon event on Sunday for the fashion elite, showcasing his latest runway collection at Milan Fashion Week. This marks a significant occasion as it represents the 50-year milestone of his signature brand, featuring an extravagant display of textures, craftsmanship, and the designer's hallmark elegance.
The collection, titled "Roots," opened with a striking look that embodied the sensory complexity characteristic of the Fall-Winter 2025-26 womenswear line. The ensemble featured a flourish of rich faux fur framing the model's face, complemented by fluid silken trousers that gleamed in the light, while a leather-trimmed tweed jacket pulled the look together seamlessly.
Notable guests included actress Lily James, ballet dancer Maria Bogdanovich, and model Ana Beatriz Barros. They enjoyed the runway show while seated on curving sofas, creating a cozy atmosphere. Among the attendees was Italian senator-for-life Liliana Segre, a Holocaust survivor, as well as prominent figures from Milan's cultural institutions.
The "Roots" collection presented a careful blend of soothing neutrals and harmonizing materials, with interesting contrasts throughout. The trousers were designed to either be loose and pleated at the front or gathered loosely like jodhpurs, showcasing Armani's inspiration drawn from Eastern styles. The jackets featured a mix of contrasting jacquards and intricate quilting, highlighting the designer's expert craftsmanship.
Evening wear in the collection was defined by feather-light constructions, with some pieces being sheer and adorned with sparkling beading that occasionally mimicked the patterns of geodes. Sculpted bodices added a touch of couture, with designs that stood away from the body to create dynamic silhouettes.
As highlighted in the show notes, "For Giorgio Armani, each collection is a return to his roots, an affirmation of an authentic style that evolves, drawing on itself while remaining firmly anchored in reality." This statement encapsulates the designer's enduring philosophy and approach to fashion design.
The event concluded with Armani, now at the age of 90, taking his final bow on the runway. Accompanied by two elegant models, he received applause signaling the end of his show. This event was particularly significant as it was the last major runway show of Milan Fashion Week before attendees would continue their fashion explorations in Paris.
Overall, Giorgio Armani's Fall-Winter 2025-26 womenswear collection not only celebrated the brand's heritage but also reaffirmed its commitment to luxury and innovation in the fashion industry. The intimate setting and distinguished guest list contributed to the show's exclusivity, making it a standout event in the prestigious Milan Fashion Week calendar.
