MILAN – Ricky Martin and Hudson Williams were among the celebrities gracing the front row on Monday as Giorgio Armani unveiled its first menswear collection under the exclusive creative leadership of Leo Dell’Orco, following the legendary designer’s passing in September.

The collection, showcased on the concluding day of Milan Fashion Week, stayed true to the brand’s hallmark of soft tailoring while introducing an air of sharpness and modern flair.

The debut look set the tone with a loden green top elegantly paired with a textured jacket and gray trousers. Rich jewel tones of soothing purples and lapis blues shimmered against the luxurious fabrics of velvet, cashmere, and chenille.

Echoes of Armani’s iconic designs were evident in the blouson bomber jackets and belted trench coats, paired with crisp white shirts and ties, complemented by the signature pleated trousers. Slightly crumpled fedora hats added a classic touch to the ensembles.

Although Armani himself was known for his subtle show finales, this collection concluded with a grand walk-through. Ricky Martin captured the moment from his front-row seat while the audience showed their appreciation with enthusiastic applause.

Alex Badia, the fashion and style director at WWD, remarked, “There’s a newfound energy, a sense of joy. It’s not exactly a new beginning, but you can feel something fresh and exciting is emerging.”

Carlo Capasa, the head of Milan’s fashion chamber, said the collection was very “modern.” “I found the true spirit of Armani,” he said after the show.

Dell’Orco, Armani’s collaborator of 40 years, took a bow to long applause after the show. Unlike Armani, who always wore a simple dark T-shirt, in later years adding a blazer, Dell’Orco wore a double-breasted suit but no tie.