New York Fashion Week may be over, but the industry’s game of creative director musical chairs is still very much ongoing: On Wednesday, The Armani Group announced the appointment of Dario Vitale as creative director of Emporio Armani and Giorgio Armani Accessories. He is the first to hold this role outside the Armani family.
“I am honored to take on this dual role across Emporio Armani and Giorgio Armani, and deeply grateful to Silvana [Armani] and Leo [Dell’Orco] for welcoming me into their world,” Vitale said in a press statement. “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 43-year-old Italian designer has an impressive fashion resume: He’s worked at Bottega Veneta (under Tomas Maier), and in 2010, joined Miu Miu, working closely with Miuccia Prada. He worked his way up to becoming Miu Miu’s design director of ready-to-wear and brand image director, before stepping down in March 2025. He then notably succeeded Donatella Versace as Versace’s chief creative officer, becoming the first non-Versace family member to helm that brand in April 2025. Even though his debut Versace collection was well received, he left in December 2025 (amid the brand’s acquisition by Prada Group), after only one season.
Now, at Emporio Armani, he’s tasked with ushering in a new chapter for the brand, bringing an innovative edge while maintaining the label’s established identity and aesthetic, per the press statement.
“The appointment of Dario Vitale marks an important milestone for the Armani Group: a decision that strengthens our creative organization and confirms our commitment to looking ahead, consolidating the Group’s path of evolution while remaining faithful to Giorgio Armani’s values and vision,” added Giuseppe Marsocci, CEO and managing director of the Armani Group.
Vitale is the latest high-profile designer to join a major luxury house: Other recent appointments include Olivier Rousteing at Rabanne, Loris Messina and Simone Rizzo at Moschino and Kai Nesselrath at Carven.
