Armani’s final collection unveiled in Milan tribute

The world of fashion stood still in Milan on Sunday night as Giorgio Armani’s final collection was unveiled in a moving tribute to the late designer.

What was meant to be a celebration of 50 years of his fashion empire turned into an emotional farewell, following Armani’s death earlier this month at the age of 91.

The spring/summer 2026 show took place at the Pinacoteca di Brera art gallery, where over 120 of his creations are currently on display. The venue glowed with paper lanterns, the same symbol of light used during his public memorial, as models filed out in signature Armani suits and glittering dresses.

Hollywood royalty turned up in force, Cate Blanchett, Glenn Close, Richard Gere, Samuel L Jackson, Zhang Ziyi, Lauren Hutton and Spike Lee among them. Gere’s suit from American Gigolo (1980) was also featured in the accompanying exhibition.

“This moment, this atmosphere speaks for itself. There’s a lot of memories here tonight,” Blanchett told reporters. She described Armani as “a deeply human, talented individual.”

The final look, a long-sleeved blue glittering gown with Armani’s face subtly woven into the fabric, drew a standing ovation from the 700 guests in attendance.

The collection drew inspiration from Armani’s beloved Milan and Pantelleria, the volcanic island where he kept a holiday home. Colours of the earth, sea and sky  neutrals, greens, blues and purples dominated the runway.

At the end, Armani’s niece, Silvana Armani, and his long-time partner and collaborator, Leo Dell’Orco, stepped forward to acknowledge the crowd. The brand said in its notes: “This collection, the last Giorgio Armani worked on personally, is in some ways a testament to style and the close of a cycle, so that new ones may begin.”