Dario Vitale named creative director for Emporio Armani and Giorgio Armani Accessories

# What happened On September 16, 2026, the Armani Group announced Dario Vitale as creative director of Emporio Armani and Giorgio Armani Accessories. The appointment is notable because Vitale is the first person outside the Armani family to take this creative post since the brand was founded. The role takes effect immediately.

# Who he reports to and what others said Giuseppe Marsocci, CEO and Managing Director of the Armani Group, described Vitale's arrival as a significant milestone and pointed to Emporio Armani's global importance and accessories as a growth opportunity. Silvana Armani (Head of Womenswear Design) and Leo Dell'Orco (Head of Menswear Design) said they trust Vitale to uphold Emporio Armani's spirit of freedom and experimentation while maintaining respect and authenticity.

Vitale described the appointment directly: "I am honored to take on this dual role across Emporio Armani and Giorgio Armani and deeply grateful to Silvana and Leo for welcoming me into their world. Armani has a powerful legacy and unmistakable design language, a heritage that has spanned decades and shaped the history of fashion. I approach all of this with a deep sense of responsibility and excitement as we build upon that rich foundation, defining a new era together."

# Why the Group chose him Vitale's practical strengths. The announcement highlights his reputation for close attention to product, quality, consistency, and contemporary design. The Group positions those attributes as the right fit for the next phase of Emporio Armani and for expanding the accessories business.

# What this means for the brands Vitale's remit covers both Emporio Armani and Giorgio Armani Accessories. That combination places design decisions for a ready-to-wear sub-brand and the accessory lines under one creative lead. The industry will watch how he balances Armani's established design language with his own creative instincts.

His first collection under the new title will be considered a test of that balance. The Group signaled confidence in a transition that aims to respect the house's existing codes while opening a new creative dialogue between heritage and current direction.

# Immediate facts to keep in mind

• Announcement date: September 16, 2026, in Milan.
• Scope: Creative director for Emporio Armani and Giorgio Armani Accessories.
• Effective: Immediate.

# What to watch next Look for previews of his first collection and early accessory drops to see whether he shifts silhouettes, materials, or accessory emphasis. Sales and seasonal show reception will indicate how the market and critics respond to his interpretation of Armani codes.