Honoring Emporio Armani’s aesthetic heritage while opening new pathways through cultural dialogue and craftsmanship, Giorgio Armani returns to a founding principle of his aesthetic for the brand’s SS26 men’s collection: an authentic appreciation for diverse cultures and the many ways clothing reflects identity.

The garments take inspiration from African traditions and artisanal techniques, and Armani translated these references into relaxed silhouettes, perfectly suited for summer. Soft tailoring, wide-legged trousers, and long, flowing tunics defined the garments, while leather trench coats and jackets worn against bare skin introduced a subtle sensuality that balanced sophistication with allure.

While Giorgio Armani himself was absent, his presence was felt in every detail that graced the runway during Milan Fashion Week. The presentation opened dramatically with models sprinting across the stage, channeling the freedom and expansiveness of desert winds and open horizons. It was an energetic preview that set the tone for the eclectic, culturally infused collection to follow.

The choice of fabrics embodied this duality, with crepe and linen shifting from tactile and textured to light and fluid. For techniques, cold-dyeing added depth and character, giving each piece the appearance of having been gently weathered by sun and time. Leather trench coats and knitwear, though substantial in appearance, retained remarkable lightness.

“Just as seemingly discordant tones blend with harmony on a painter’s palette, this season’s collection weaves together city and holiday, West and East, South and North, starting from contrasting premises to find balance in the lightness of its stylistic signature,” said Mr. Armani in an official statement.

The palette ranged from warm sands and earthy reds to nuanced tones reminiscent of sun-scorched terrain. Vivid bursts of deep violet, muted reds, and colors evocative of distant steppes added unexpected depth.

While patterns and textures drew inspiration from the vibrancy of Moroccan mosaics, Berber tent fabrics, and symbolic ritual tattoos. These cultural references came to life through surface techniques like smock stitching, dense beadwork, and silk-thread embroidery, which introduced graphic elements and transformed each garment into a wearable work of art.

Courtesy of Emporio Armani

Accessories reinforced the collection’s focus on personal expression and cultural resonance. Raffia hats and soft bags complemented the collection’s relaxed structure, while beaded charms, layered necklaces, and braided belts reflected the artisanal codes and heritage motifs. Drawing thoughtfully from African cultural forms and symbolic ornamentation, these elements reflected Armani’s prioritization of an informed design philosophy.

As the show came to an end, black evening looks brought depth, completing a narrative that moved between heritage and a forward-thinking design ethos.