Italian designer Dario Vitale has been appointed creative director of Emporio Armani and Giorgio Armani Accessories, the first to hold this role outside the Armani family.
The news was announced via a statement from the brand on Wednesday, which read: “Throughout his career, Dario Vitale has gained significant experience in the fashion industry, working with leading companies and developing a keen sensitivity to product, quality, consistency and contemporaneity.
His arrival marks the beginning of a new chapter in the brand’s history and opens a dialogue between innovation and identity, strengthening the Group’s creative structure and supporting its evolution while respecting the aesthetic vision that has always defined the Giorgio Armani name.”
Speaking of his new role, Vitale said: “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.”
The creative made headlines at the end of 2025, when he left Versace following Prada's acquisition of the Italian house from Capri Holdings. His exit was described as a “mutual decision” by the Italian brand, yet cast confusion among industry insiders.
© ImaxtreeVitale, who joined Versace in March 2025 from Miu Miu, used his debut SS26 collection to pay homage to the late Gianni Versace. The collection recycled the brand’s signature vibrant hues, sensual silhouettes and 80s-inspired colourblocking, championing designs from capri pants to slouchy suede bombers and crystal-encrusted bralettes.
The designer’s role will commence with immediate effect and will involve working closely with Silvana Armani and president of the Armani Group, Leo Dell’Orco.
