A retrospective exhibition honoring the illustrious career of Giorgio Armani is set to open at a Milan museum, marking 50 years of his contributions to the fashion industry. This exhibition will showcase over 100 of Armani’s creations, featuring dresses and suits that highlight the designer’s renowned understated elegance. The event coincides with the unfortunate passing of Armani, known in the fashion world as “King Giorgio,” who died at 91 in Milan—a city that held deep professional and personal significance for him. The exhibit, curated with Armani’s input, begins during Milan Fashion Week and runs through January, coinciding with the 50th anniversary of the Armani label.
The retrospective, held at the Brera art museum, sets a reflective yet celebratory tone for the fashion week, culminating in a runway show presenting Armani’s final collection. Angelo Crespi, the museum director, remarked on Armani’s design philosophy, noting its aesthetic and ethical rigor, likening it to the work of great artists from the past. This event not only celebrates the end of an era but also paves the way for a new chapter for the iconic brand that has fiercely maintained its independence.
In his will, Armani specified plans for his heirs to eventually sell the company, naming major players like LVMH, L’Oréal, and EssilorLuxottica as potential buyers. Until a sale takes place, the business will remain under the stewardship of Armani’s family and Pantaleo Dell’Orco, his longtime collaborator, who will oversee the transition alongside a dedicated foundation.
Milan Fashion Week is already underway, featuring prominent fashion houses like Gucci, Prada, Dolce & Gabbana, and Fendi, each presenting their latest collections. As the industry mourns the loss of a fashion legend, there is optimism that the brand will continue to uphold Armani’s legacy of elegance and simplicity, inspiring future generations of designers. This exhibition not only remembers Giorgio Armani’s immense contributions but also signifies a hopeful outlook for the brand’s future evolution.