Stars including Cate Blanchett, Glenn Close, and Richard Gere were in attendance for the Giorgio Armani spring/summer 2026 collection show in Milan on Sunday, marking the final collection the esteemed Italian designer worked on before his death. Originally intended as a celebration of 50 years of the late designer's fashion house, the catwalk show transitioned into a tribute following his passing earlier this month at the age of 91.

The event took place at the Pinacoteca di Brera art gallery, where over 120 of Armani’s creations are on display. Models reminiscent of those who walked for the designer over the past five decades returned to showcase a blend of classic suits and dazzling dresses.

They donned a palette of neutrals, greens, blues, and purples, reflecting nuances of nature, as reported by AFP. Inspired by the northern Italian city where Armani lived and the volcanic island of Pantelleria, where he owned a holiday home, the collection encapsulated both the essence of the designer and the landscape he loved.

A beautiful courtyard adorned with paper lanterns set the stage, enhancing the atmosphere that mirrored a public viewing of Armani's body held earlier in Milan.

This moment, this atmosphere speaks for itself. There’s a lot of memories here tonight, Blanchett shared with reporters, while also noting that Armani was a deeply human, talented individual.

The show concluded with a stunning long-sleeved, blue glittering gown, worn by one of Armani's favorite models, Agnese Zogla, which bore an image of the late designer's face, earning it a standing ovation from the 700 guests present.

Following the fashion show, attendees visited the 'Giorgio Armani: Milano, Per Amore' exhibition, showcasing classic outfits like Gere's suit from the 1980 film 'American Gigolo,' displayed alongside Italian art masterpieces. Acclaimed figures from film and fashion, including Samuel L. Jackson and Spike Lee, paid their respects to Armani's lasting legacy.

Even with a deep sense of loss, the collection served as a testament to style and the close of a significant chapter in fashion, signaling that new ones are also ready to commence. Highlights also included live piano music performed by Italian composer Ludovico Einaudi, adding to the emotional resonance of the event. Outgoing Vogue editor-in-chief Anna Wintour was notably present, adding her recognition of the momentous occasion.

As Milan celebrated its fashion week, Meryl Streep and Stanley Tucci were spotted at a different venue, further intertwining the worlds of film and fashion as they filmed the sequel to 'The Devil Wears Prada' in the city.