The fashion world mourns the passing of Giorgio Armani, the revered Italian designer, at the age of 91. His eponymous group confirmed his peaceful departure, surrounded by his loved ones. For half a century, Armani dominated the Milanese fashion scene, meticulously building a multi-billion-dollar global empire that encompassed not just apparel but also fragrances, cosmetics, interior design, hospitality, and dining experiences. His signature aesthetic, characterized by its pared-down yet impeccably tailored silhouettes, redefined 1980s power dressing and established him as a pioneer in fostering strong relationships with Hollywood's elite. Such was his influence that he was affectionately known as \"Re Giorgio\" or \"King Giorgio.\" A public funeral chamber will be open on Saturday, September 6, and Sunday, September 7, at the Armani/Teatro for those wishing to pay their respects.
Anna Wintour, a formidable force in fashion, has named Chloe Malle as the new Head of Editorial Content for American Vogue. This significant appointment comes as Wintour redirects her focus toward the publication's global expansion and major initiatives like the Met Gala. Malle, who has a long-standing history as an editor within the magazine, brings a unique blend of fashion and entertainment expertise to her new position. As the daughter of acclaimed actress Candice Bergen and director Louis Malle, her background perfectly complements her extensive experience at Vogue. Malle's immediate assumption of her new duties signals a fresh chapter for the iconic fashion publication, ushering in a new generation of leadership.
Rachel Scott has been appointed as the new creative director for the American luxury brand Proenza Schouler, succeeding the founding duo, Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez. Scott, a celebrated Jamaican-American designer and the visionary behind her own label, Diotima, is slated to present her inaugural collection in February 2026. She has already been actively contributing to the brand as a consultant in their design studio and played a significant role in shaping the upcoming Spring 2026 collection. In a heartfelt statement, Scott conveyed her deep admiration for Proenza Schouler and its founders, expressing her eagerness to infuse her unique vision into their established heritage. Shira Suveyke Snyder, CEO of Proenza Schouler, lauded Scott as one of contemporary fashion's most acclaimed design talents, emphasizing her refreshing female perspective and remarkable ability to merge traditional craftsmanship with innovative concepts.
Maison Margiela has officially introduced \"Line 2,\" an innovative initiative designed to prioritize artistic and cultural endeavors over the creation of conventional consumer products. The inaugural project, an immersive installation titled \"Art of the Intangible,\" was unveiled at the brand's flagship store in Seoul, strategically timed to coincide with the Frieze international contemporary art fair. This collaborative work, featuring visual artist Heemin Chung and sound designer Joyul, is conceptualized as a sensory journey that dissolves the boundaries between fashion, art, and the surrounding environment. According to CEO Gaetano Sciuto, Line 2 aims to \"transcend mere acquisition\" by fostering \"connection\" and \"community,\" signifying a profound shift in the brand's strategic focus toward deeper cultural engagement.
Post Malone's nascent fashion label, Austin Post, made its grand runway debut in Paris with a collection dubbed \"Season One: At First Light.\" The presentation aimed to reimagine Western aesthetics for a contemporary audience, showcasing a fresh interpretation of the modern cowboy. The collection featured classic denim-on-denim ensembles, elevated by meticulous tailored details, alongside striking velvet jackets adorned with gilded star embellishments. Fringe jackets emerged as a key motif, honoring their historical roots while transforming into sophisticated statement pieces. To emphasize the collection's authentic inspiration, every look was complemented by Lucchese boots, and the show memorably included a horse on the runway. Austin Post Apparel positions itself as a distinctive voice in fashion, celebrating the spirit of the West within a contemporary framework.
Soshi Otsuki, the creative mind behind Soshiotsuki, was honored with the prestigious LVMH Prize, receiving a €400,000 grant and a year-long mentorship. The Karl Lagerfeld Prize was awarded to Steve O Smith, while Torishéju Dumi of Torishéju secured the Savoir-Faire Prize, with each receiving a €200,000 endowment and dedicated mentorship. Torishéju will also benefit from support from the LVMH Métiers d’Excellence and an additional €50,000 for embellishments. Furthermore, three promising fashion graduates were acknowledged, each awarded a €10,000 prize and invaluable learning experiences at the esteemed studios of Kenzo, Louis Vuitton, and Dior, underscoring LVMH's commitment to nurturing the next generation of design talent.