Farewells, Anniversaries, and New Beginnings A Pivotal Week in Fashion History
Milan Fashion Week September 2025 was far more than a series of runway shows—it became a landmark event imbued with emotion, nostalgia, and anticipation. As the international fashion community gathered in Milan, the city transformed into a crossroads where the end of one era seamlessly gave way to the promise of the next. This edition honored the past, celebrated the present, and pointed toward an exciting future, all while paying homage to a legendary figure who has left an indelible mark on the world of fashion.
A Tribute to a Master: The Legacy of Giorgio Armani
The heartbeat of Milan was united in both mourning and celebration, following the recent passing of Giorgio Armani—a visionary who shaped fashion’s global narrative. In a testament to his enduring influence, Armani’s maison announced that it would continue its operations in the “spirit of commitment, respect, and attention to work” that Mr. Armani embodied and inspired in his collaborators. The Emporio Armani and Giorgio Armani shows pressed on as scheduled, becoming poignant tributes to his final creative vision.
Two iconic venues in Milan became the epicenter of this homage. On September 24, the celebrated Pinacoteca di Brera opened its doors for its first-ever fashion exhibition, showcasing 150 archival looks that narrated the brand’s fifty-year journey. The tribute culminated on September 28, with the brand’s 50th-anniversary show in the courtyard of Palazzo Brera—a deeply moving event that honored Armani’s lasting legacy now that he is no longer with us.
The Grand Debuts: A New Generation of Visionaries
While the fashion world bid farewell to one era, Milan Fashion Week simultaneously heralded the arrival of a wave of new talent, ready to redefine the aesthetics and identities of storied fashion houses. This season was marked by bold debuts, with the industry’s attention fixed on those daring enough to reshape tradition.
Perhaps the most electrifying moment was the announcement that Demna would present his first collection for Gucci in September, pushing forward his debut earlier than expected. Rather than a conventional runway show, Demna orchestrated a private event-performance that served as a tantalizing preview of his vision—stoking anticipation and curiosity for what’s next at Gucci.
Elsewhere, the winds of change swept through other revered brands. Louise Trotter at Bottega Veneta, Simone Bellotti at Jil Sander, and Dario Vitale at Versace (with a private event) all brought their fresh perspectives to the runway, each contributing to a broader reimagining of the Italian fashion landscape.
The Future is “Phygital”: Diesel’s Egg Hunt
Artificial intelligence took center stage this season, no longer just a technological buzzword but a creative partner in shaping fashion experiences. Milan Fashion Week blurred the boundaries between the physical and the digital, with innovative presentations that captivated both live and virtual audiences.
A standout example came from Diesel, under Glenn Martens’ creative direction. Introducing the inaugural “Diesel Egg Hunt” on September 23, Diesel transformed central Milan into a playground for discovery. After its Spring/Summer 2026 collection show, the city became host to a real-life treasure hunt: participants used a dynamic map to locate massive transparent egg-shaped structures that displayed pieces from the new collection. This playful and symbolic event celebrated autonomy and self-determination, rewarding winners with exclusive items and turning the audience into active participants rather than mere observers.
Conclusion: The Next Chapter in Italian Fashion
Milan Fashion Week September 2025 was a rich tapestry of heartfelt farewells and bold beginnings. It paid homage to Giorgio Armani’s extraordinary legacy, welcomed a new cadre of creative leaders, and seamlessly integrated technology into the fabric of fashion. This week was not just about presenting clothes—it was about writing the next thrilling chapter in the story of Italian style.
Among these sweeping changes—historic tributes, daring debuts, and technological innovations—each attendee and observer found something uniquely captivating. Which transformation resonated most with you?
FAQs about Milan Fashion Week
Q: Why was Giorgio Armani absent from Fashion Week?
A: The legendary designer passed away on September 4, just a few days before the event. The fashion shows held by his brand were a tribute to his memory and legacy.
Q: What were the most significant debuts at this Milan Fashion Week?
A: The most anticipated debuts were Demna at Gucci, Louise Trotter at Bottega Veneta, Simone Bellotti at Jil Sander, and Dario Vitale at Versace.
Q: What anniversaries were celebrated during the event?
A: The Giorgio Armani brand celebrated its 50th anniversary with a special exhibition and show, while Fendi marked its 100th anniversary with a co-ed collection.
Q: What was the “Diesel Egg Hunt”?
A: It was an interactive treasure hunt launched by Diesel, where participants had to find looks from the new collection hidden in giant egg-shaped structures throughout the streets of Milan.
