Giorgio Armani Spring Summer 2024 “Oceanic Opulence”. Story by Eleonora de Gray, Editor-in-Chief of RUNWAY MAGAZINE. Photo Courtesy: Giorgio Armani.
Giorgio Armani’s Spring Summer 2024 collection is nothing short of a masterpiece, and I say that with the utmost fascination. The entire collection seems to have been born from the depths of the ocean, with fabrics that imitate the gentle waves and jewelry that resembles transparent underwater creatures. Scarves are transformed into multicolored shells, jackets evoke tropical underwater reefs, and necklaces mimic the intricacy of a fisherman’s net. Tops take on the appearance of fish scales, and the models themselves look like the most enchanting mermaids adorned in the riches of the deep. It’s truly AMAZING.
As the sun shone over Milan for the grand finale of fashion week, Giorgio Armani unveiled his Spring Summer 2024 Women’s collection, aptly named “Vibes.” The entire showcase was a symphony of undulating movements and rippling weaves, as if the very essence of water had been woven into the garments. The color palette expanded to include bronze, silver, and precious greens and purples, ultimately culminating in a pristine white that evokes the serenity of evenings.
Against a backdrop of softly diffused waves of color, the models graced the runway with late ’20s-inspired finger wave hairstyles. Each phase of the show was marked by a subtle shift in lighting and a focus on the interplay of fabrics and colors.
The initial phase showcased the interplay of bronze metallic fabrics and silk grayish blue, often cinched with leather belts that curved gracefully against the body. Phase two introduced Armani’s signature blue, featuring a strapless dress adorned with woven rectangles of blue against a darker knit sheath. Accessories included wave bangles worn mid-forearm and flat-soled boxing boots that gave a modern edge to the looks.
The collection seamlessly transitioned to a conversation between blue and marine green, with a standout wave-buttoned kimono jacket. A silk trouser and vest-top ensemble featured a frothy skirt composed of sheer wave-shaped panels that cascaded down towards the floor, creating a dramatic effect. As the mood deepened, near-black looks played with light and shadows, achieving their waviness through the reflective nature of silky fabrics. The colors came to life through waistcoats embroidered with gleaming shapes, resembling shells or planets, in shades of purples and blues.
The final phase introduced a wave of dusky pale pink, with color accents carried over from the previous section. Collarless jackets and long tulip skirts were adorned with art deco-inspired patterns in rolling cloud-shaped colors and subtle crystal embellishments. The show concluded with a model in a long, loosely fitted cloud dress featuring a crystal-inset sporty neckline, draping a floor-length sheer shawl with additional points of reflection. She was indeed as an underwater creature.
Giorgio Armani himself appeared, greeted by applause, waving to the audience. This entire collection was indeed a “vibe,” a captivating exploration of waves and colors that transported the audience to a world of elegance and artistry.