Dario Vitale Has a New Job and It’s Even Bigger Than Versace

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This week just got so much better as it was announced this morning that Dario Vitale is now the creative director of Emporio Armani! He will also oversee accessories at Giorgio Armani and is the first person outside of the Armani family to hold either such role.

This news comes a year after Vitale showed his polarizing, but subversively brilliant Spring 2026 Versace show and just nine months after he was fired by Versace’s new owners, Prada Group. Vitale spent 14 years working for Prada Group before heading to Versace, starting at Miu Miu in 2010 and eventually becoming the brand’s design director of ready-to-wear and head of image. Although his first collection for Versace was met with some mixed reviews — especially by fans of Donatella Versace’s eveningwear-first approach — it is generally believed that Vitale’s dismissal had nothing to do with his work and everything to do with the fact that the higher-ups at Prada Group were resentful over his departure and wanted revenge.

All that’s behind him now, though. And, honestly, this new job could be the beginning of something even bigger.

“I am honored to take on this dual role across Emporio Armani and Giorgio Armani, and deeply grateful to Silvana and Leo for welcoming me into their world,” said Vitale in a 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.”

“Emporio Armani is much more than a line for us: it is a reality to which we are deeply connected, having followed and shared its journey since the very beginning,” said Silvana Armani, head of womenswear design, and Leo Dell’Orco, head of menswear design of the Armani Group. “Emporio was born as a space of freedom, experimentation and energy, and we are convinced that Dario’s arrival in our team, as a talent already established on the international stage, will interpret its spirit with respect and authenticity.”

“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,” said Giuseppe Marsocci, CEO and managing director of the Armani Group. “Emporio Armani is a brand of strategic relevance for us and our partners around the world. Giorgio Armani accessories represent a great opportunity. We look to this new phase with enormous confidence.”

As do we, Mr. Marsocci. As do we!