For Spring/Summer 2026, Giorgio Armani sent Emporio on a soulful journey—southward, toward heat, rhythm, and memory. But rather than rely on literal costume, the collection paid homage to African motifs and silhouettes through texture and atmosphere.
Djellabas in soft suede, sarouel trousers in striped cotton, raffia-trimmed footwear, and ponchos draped like sun-faded relics brought a new kind of tribal elegance to the Armani universe. It was all filtered through the brand’s unmistakable lens of restraint, polish, and effortless drape.
🌍 A Global Reflection in Earth Tones
This wasn’t a radical departure from Mr. Armani’s core style, but rather a thoughtful evolution—a meditation on roots, craft, and identity. Earthy tones and woven jacquards dominated, alongside pleated silks and mosaic prints that nodded to Morocco and beyond. The collection felt like a narrative of legacy and land, expressed through breezy tailoring and windswept luxury.
Feathered scarves trailed behind flowing silks, while beaded bags and braided clogs grounded the looks in tactile richness. The result? A runway that moved like desert wind: soft, storied, and unmistakably Emporio.
🧑⚕️ Giorgio Armani’s Absence, A Historic First
For the first time in the brand’s history, Giorgio Armani did not attend one of his shows. The announcement came just a day prior, on June 20, with a statement from the brand confirming that the legendary designer is currently recovering at home.
In his place, Leo Dell’Orco, Mr. Armani’s longtime right-hand man, represented the maison during the Emporio Armani SS26 presentation. The show opened with a capsule of contemporary technical garments, setting the tone with modern energy before giving way to the earthy calm of the main collection.
🎥 Backstage & Beyond
Esquire Italia documented the entire event—from the backstage preparations and runway moments to the crowd of fashion insiders and friends who showed up to applaud the house’s creative direction. On display: rich natural tones of terra-cotta, sand, panna cream, and layered greens—all part of a palette that spoke of nature, movement, and memory.
Cast Felisia D’angelo
Key Makeup Artist @iamcristianaceccarelli
Key Hairstylist @robertabellazzi for @theagencyaldocoppola
The sportswear is great! Corn braid hairstyle reminds me of Madonna’s corn hair in the Human Nature video.