Armani taps Dario Vitale for its Emporio and accessories lines a year after death of Giorgio Armani

The Armani fashion group has appointed Dario Vitale as the creative director for its Emporio Armani and Giorgio Armani Accessories lines, marking a significant step in the company's creative reorganization following the death of founder Giorgio Armani a year ago. Vitale, a seasoned fashion insider who previously worked for Miu Miu, joins the brand after leaving Versace after just one season.

Armani described Vitale's appointment as the "beginning of a new chapter" for the brand, signaling a fusion of innovation and identity. Giorgio Armani, a towering figure in Italian luxury ready-to-wear, passed away in September 2025 at the age of 91. His niece, Silvana Armani, and longtime menswear designer Leo Dell’Orco are managing the creative direction of his principal collections.

Emporio Armani caters to a younger demographic. Vitale's first collection for Versace in September 2025 was a bold return to the sexually charged Versace aesthetic of the 1980s and 1990s, but he departed after just one season. Prada, the parent company of Miu Miu, acquired Versace in December. Giorgio Armani's will directed his heirs to sell a 15% stake in the company, including Emporio Armani, Armani/Casa, and Armani Hotels, within 18 months of his death.