Dario Vitale has been appointed Creative Director of Emporio Armani and Giorgio Armani Accessories – the first person outside the Armani family to hold the role.

Taking up the position with immediate effect, Vitale’s arrival marks the beginning of a new chapter for the brand following the passing of its founder, Giorgio Armani, last year. The move also sees Vitale embark on a new challenge following his brief tenure at the helm of Versace, where he was likewise the first non-family member to hold the role. Though his time at Versace lasted just eight months, Vitale quickly built a following for his maximalist, 80s-infused designs – a decade equally significant to Armani.

“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. “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.”

On the appointment, Silvana Armani, Head of Womenswear Design, and Leo Dell’Orco, Head of Menswear Design of the Armani Group said in a statement: “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. 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.”