Giorgio Armani's Legacy Takes Center Stage as Dell'Orco Assumes Creative Direction
In a poignant moment of introspection, Leo Dell'Orco, Giorgio Armani's longtime collaborator and right-hand man, took the stage in Milan to unveil the designer's posthumous menswear collection. As the first Armani show without its eponymous founder at the helm, the event marked a pivotal moment in the fashion world's understanding of Dell'Orco's vision for the iconic brand.
Dell'Orco's approach to menswear was distinct from his late counterpart, Giorgio Armani, yet remained true to the essence of the designer's signature style. Gone were the relaxed, deconstructed suiting and fluid folds in silk, velvet, and cashmere; instead, Dell'Orco opted for a bold, jewel-toned palette that added a touch of youthful vibrancy to the classic Armani uniform.
The show featured everyday staples such as velvet-coordinated sets, brushed cashmere jackets, and polo shirts, all reimagined with an updated color scheme. The result was a visually striking collection that paid homage to Armani's legacy while embracing the future.
Industry insiders praised Dell'Orco for his thoughtful approach, which skillfully distilled the essence of Armani's style while injecting a fresh sense of energy into the brand. "It definitely felt like the brand wasn't trying to reinvent itself after the passing of Mr. Armani," observed Zak Maoui, Gentleman's Journal style director. "Dell'Orco left his mark without distorting the lasting memory we have of, ultimately, the iconic brand that Armani built."
The positive reception from critics and industry experts has sparked speculation about Dell'Orco's long-term creative direction for the brand. While Armani has not commented on any succession plan, insiders hint at a more permanent arrangement. As Dell'Orco takes his place alongside his nephew Gianluca Dell'Orco, head of menswear style office, it is clear that the future of the brand will be shaped by this creative duo.
Furthermore, Armani's posthumous wishes reveal an unexpected dimension to the fashion icon's legacy. In a surprising move, Giorgio Armani instructed his heirs to sell 15% stake in the business within 18 months and an additional 30% to 54.9% to a buyer, naming L'Orรฉal, EssilorLuxottica, and LVMH as potential bidders. The next steps remain shrouded in mystery, leaving the fashion world eagerly anticipating the outcome of this strategic move.
With Dell'Orco at the helm, Armani is poised to embark on a new chapter in its storied history, one that will blend tradition with innovation while honoring the legacy of its founder.
In a poignant moment of introspection, Leo Dell'Orco, Giorgio Armani's longtime collaborator and right-hand man, took the stage in Milan to unveil the designer's posthumous menswear collection. As the first Armani show without its eponymous founder at the helm, the event marked a pivotal moment in the fashion world's understanding of Dell'Orco's vision for the iconic brand.
Dell'Orco's approach to menswear was distinct from his late counterpart, Giorgio Armani, yet remained true to the essence of the designer's signature style. Gone were the relaxed, deconstructed suiting and fluid folds in silk, velvet, and cashmere; instead, Dell'Orco opted for a bold, jewel-toned palette that added a touch of youthful vibrancy to the classic Armani uniform.
The show featured everyday staples such as velvet-coordinated sets, brushed cashmere jackets, and polo shirts, all reimagined with an updated color scheme. The result was a visually striking collection that paid homage to Armani's legacy while embracing the future.
Industry insiders praised Dell'Orco for his thoughtful approach, which skillfully distilled the essence of Armani's style while injecting a fresh sense of energy into the brand. "It definitely felt like the brand wasn't trying to reinvent itself after the passing of Mr. Armani," observed Zak Maoui, Gentleman's Journal style director. "Dell'Orco left his mark without distorting the lasting memory we have of, ultimately, the iconic brand that Armani built."
The positive reception from critics and industry experts has sparked speculation about Dell'Orco's long-term creative direction for the brand. While Armani has not commented on any succession plan, insiders hint at a more permanent arrangement. As Dell'Orco takes his place alongside his nephew Gianluca Dell'Orco, head of menswear style office, it is clear that the future of the brand will be shaped by this creative duo.
Furthermore, Armani's posthumous wishes reveal an unexpected dimension to the fashion icon's legacy. In a surprising move, Giorgio Armani instructed his heirs to sell 15% stake in the business within 18 months and an additional 30% to 54.9% to a buyer, naming L'Orรฉal, EssilorLuxottica, and LVMH as potential bidders. The next steps remain shrouded in mystery, leaving the fashion world eagerly anticipating the outcome of this strategic move.
With Dell'Orco at the helm, Armani is poised to embark on a new chapter in its storied history, one that will blend tradition with innovation while honoring the legacy of its founder.