At Milan Fashion Week, the Emporio Armani Spring-Summer 2026 menswear preview unfolded without the brand’s iconic founder, Giorgio Armani, making his usual end-of-show appearance. Now 90, Armani is currently recovering at home, prompting his fashion house to announce his absence in advance, though without disclosing further medical details. While his physical presence was missed — especially his traditional post-show photo with models — Armani’s creative influence remained central to the collection.
Bohemian Spirit and Global Textures Blend Elegance with Freedom in Youthful Travelwear
This latest collection showcased Armani’s enduring fascination with world cultures through a bohemian and globally-inspired lens. The designs targeted youthful, style-conscious travelers who value both function and flair. Models were styled with braided hair and silver beads, adorned with beaded necklaces, charms, tassels, and fringe elements that evoked a carefree, nomadic spirit. The pieces suggested a life of movement and freedom, blending casual ease with intentional design.
Emporio Armani Channels Global Wanderer Aesthetic at Milan as Giorgio Armani Misses Show Amid RecoveryFabric selection played a key role in the storytelling of the collection. Armani favored natural materials such as crepe and linen, keeping some textures raw for an earthy aesthetic, while others featured silky patterns reminiscent of Moroccan mosaics. Silhouettes included soft pleated trousers and voluminous balloon pants, paired with long, embellished tunics. Jacket styles ranged from breezy scarf-collared pieces to intricate, feather-light options, enhancing the line’s artisanal feel.
Global Accessories and Desert-Inspired Sportswear Define a Spirit of Stylish Exploration
The traveler motif continued with accessories designed for an exotic journey. Crossbody bags, embroidered duffels, vintage-style luggage, woven slippers, and low-brim straw hats completed the ensembles, evoking the image of a well-traveled, stylish man moving through sun-drenched locales. This aesthetic stayed true to the brand’s signature elegance while embracing a more relaxed, worldly sensibility.
In the EA7 Emporio Armani capsule, a sportier, more technical direction emerged. Inspired by desert landscapes, this line used wind as a thematic and literal backdrop, creating a sensory experience for the audience. The show notes emphasized introspection and cultural appreciation as guiding principles.
Armani, even in his absence, revisited a core element of his identity: a deep respect for diverse traditions and styles. This cultural homage resonated with front-row guests, including celebrities and sports stars like Marcell Jacobs, Kawhi Leonard, and actors from Netflix hits, underscoring the collection’s modern, international appeal.