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Monday 23/02/2026

Giorgio Armani to Miss Milan Fashion Week for First Time Amid Health Concerns

Giorgio Armani absent from Milan Fashion Week 2026
Aya NakamuraAya Nakamura

In This Article

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Giorgio Armani, aged 90, will miss Milan Fashion Week for the first time due to health reasons, following a brief hospital stay.
  • Armani's absence marks a significant moment in his five-decade career, as he has been a constant presence at his shows.
  • The Spring-Summer 2026 collections will be presented by Armani's collaborator, Leo Dell'Orco, who will take the final bow.
  • Despite his absence, Armani remains actively involved, having worked on the collections and planning to watch the shows remotely.
  • The Armani brand, celebrating its 50th anniversary, continues to thrive with a valuation of £10bn, maintaining its independence in the fashion industry.

Giorgio Armani, the iconic Italian designer, will not attend his shows at Milan Fashion Week this weekend, marking the first absence in his illustrious career. The 90-year-old fashion mogul is currently recuperating at home following a brief hospital stay, as confirmed by his company. Despite his absence, Armani has been deeply involved in preparing the Spring-Summer 2026 collections, which will be showcased by his long-time collaborator, Leo Dell'Orco.

Armani's decision to miss the event comes as a precautionary measure, allowing him to focus on his health and ensure his presence at the upcoming couture show in Paris. Known as 'Re Giorgio' or 'King Giorgio' in Italy, Armani has been a pivotal figure in the fashion industry, credited with revolutionizing men's suiting and introducing Italian style to Hollywood's elite.

The Armani brand, founded in 1975, is celebrating its 50th anniversary next month, coinciding with Armani's 91st birthday. Despite the designer's plans to eventually step back, the brand remains robust, valued at £10bn, and continues to operate independently in a landscape dominated by fashion conglomerates.

Armani's influence extends beyond fashion, with his empire encompassing haute couture, ready-to-wear, accessories, and luxury hotels. His absence from Milan Fashion Week underscores the inevitable challenges of age, yet his legacy and impact on the industry remain unparalleled.

WHAT THIS MIGHT MEAN

Giorgio Armani's absence from Milan Fashion Week raises questions about the future leadership of his brand. While no clear successor has been named, Leo Dell'Orco's role in presenting the collections may hint at a potential heir. As Armani contemplates retirement, the fashion world watches closely to see how the brand will navigate this transition.

The brand's continued independence in a market dominated by conglomerates like LVMH and Kering highlights its unique position. Should Armani decide to step back, maintaining this independence could be crucial for preserving the brand's identity and legacy.

As the fashion industry evolves, Armani's influence remains significant. His absence may prompt discussions on succession planning and the sustainability of designer-led brands in an increasingly corporate landscape.