Milan has always been a stage for drama, craft, and reinvention—and this Spring/Summer 2026 season was no exception. From bold colors and nostalgic nods to the ’80s, to sharp tailoring and the return of unapologetic glamour, designers brought energy, precision, and spectacle to the Italian capital of fashion. The week also closed on a poignant note: Giorgio Armani’s final bow, a farewell to the man who defined Milanese elegance for decades.
Craft with a Modern Edge
Louise Trotter’s Bottega Veneta debut was a celebration of craftsmanship reimagined. She played with scale, layering, and texture—introducing fringes made from recycled fiberglass and fresh takes on the house’s iconic intrecciato weave, seen on jackets, scarves, and detailing. It was sustainability meeting luxury at its most inventive.
The Skirt Takes Center Stage
At Prada, the spotlight fell on skirts—but not in their traditional form. From ruffled tiers and lace panels to voluminous candy-colored bubble skirts, silhouettes became playful statements. Cinched waists, ribbons, and dramatic textures ensured the skirt became the defining shape of the season.
Miami Heat at Versace
Dario Vitale made his debut at Versace with unapologetic sex appeal rooted in ’80s nostalgia and Gianni’s Miami flair. Think bomber-style sleeveless leathers, scarf-print blouses, undone belts, and metallic bralettes—all styled with a confident, carefree edge. It was fearless, sensual, and unmistakably Versace.
Power Tailoring, Rebuilt
Tailoring dominated the runways, but with a fresh twist. Oversized trench coats layered over blazers and paperbag skirts brought a commanding energy. Shoulders were bold, silhouettes were crisp, and layering was sharp—ushering in a new era of power dressing with polish and precision.
Glamour Reborn at Gucci
Demna’s much-anticipated Gucci debut was a love letter to theatrical glamour. His “La Famiglia” collection embraced sequins, faux furs, logos, and micro-minis in a mix of irreverence and high fashion. Gucci’s playfulness felt newly energized—bold, cheeky, and larger-than-life.
A Surge of Color
This season, Milan was drenched in color. Candy pastels, sorbet tones, and electric brights clashed and mingled across collections from Prada to Fendi. Whether leaning retro or preppy, the message was clear: color is back as the ultimate mood-booster.
Romantic Layers
Airy chiffon and playful prints floated down runways at No21, Etro, and Ferragamo. Florals, polka dots, and animal motifs delivered softness and romance, counterbalancing the season’s sharper tailoring.
Minimalism with a Twist
At Jil Sander, Simone Bellotti balanced purity with surprise. Clean, minimalist lines met jolts of unexpected color—cobalt, red, and acid green—proving restraint can still be thrilling.
Fringe in Motion
Designers gave fringe new life, trimming skirts, hems, and even tailoring. Whether subtle or statement-making, it brought playful movement to daywear and evening looks alike.
A Legendary Farewell
The week closed on a historic moment: Giorgio Armani’s final show. With elegance and grace, he delivered a collection that honored his legacy while reminding the world why Milan became synonymous with sophistication. It was an emotional tribute to a visionary whose influence will endure far beyond the runway.
