Armani’s business and creative evolution on show in Milan a year after founder’s death

A year after the passing of its founder, Giorgio Armani's business and creative direction are being shaped in Milan. The latest collection, showcased on the runway, showcased the designer's signature elegance while talks for the sale of a 15% stake in the company are set to begin, as per his will. Potential buyers include LVMH, L'Oréal, and EssilorLuxottica.

Giuseppe Marsocci, the CEO, stated that there were no favorites and the stake could potentially be split among these companies. Dario Vitale, appointed as head of accessories and creative director of Emporio Armani, has sparked interest in the fashion house's creative future. No specific runway date for Vitale's debut has been announced, with Marsocci stating that everything is evolving.

The upcoming spring and summer womenswear collection, titled "Evolution," blended daywear and evening looks, incorporating cotton, a fabric Armani typically disliked but admired. The collection paid tribute to the designer through two pieces: a recreation of his 8-year-old double-breasted Communion suit and a jacket with his smiling image.