Emporio Armani FW21

It practically goes without saying that one thing we could all use right now is a brief (if not permanent) escape from our current state of the union—one that’s lighter, brighter, and more sophisticated than the sweatsuits we’ve been wearing on repeat. That was precisely the vibe Giorgio Armani set to achieve at the Emporio Armani FW21 Ready-to-Wear show, entitled “In the Mood for Pop,” held during Milan Fashion Week on Thursday, February 26. The collection is inspired by the 80s, with the pops of colour, high-waisted trousers, velvet, suspenders, and overall, good vibes to prove it. Nevertheless, the line is soft and non-intimidating, with pieces ideal for transitioning back into the office…and the nightclub.

To align with the retro theme, the virtual fashion show’s soundtrack was a club-like head-bob-worthy beat, complete with flashy neon signs reminiscent of a neon-filled 80s sitcom, or perhaps a game of PacMan. Models graced the runway in eclectic accessories like big bangles and oversized beaded necklaces. Such pieces paired perfectly with the designer’s relaxed yet sophisticated garments that reflect Emporio Armani’s dedication to being modern and innovative without sacrificing the Maison’s distinctive elegance. The collection’s FW21 looks aren’t pulled from the 80s directly. Rather they’re reimagined through Armani’s lens, who, even though his name is synonymous with high fashion, is not unattuned to the world’s fixation on elevated loungewear.

“The 80s were a magical moment, an outburst of creativity, fantasy, money that came right after the harshness of the ’70s,” said Armani in an interview. “I do not know if after the pandemic we will be entering similar conditions. I certainly hope so.” The fashion designer’s FW21 collection looks inside the famed artist’s mind, giving a taste of what the post-pandemic future might look like. In the meantime, may your dreams look something like Armani’s runway: far out of reach for the present moment, but entirely possible—and wholly welcomed—when the world returns to normal.

Ahead, click through to view all of the men’s and women’s pieces in the Emporio Armani FW21 collection.

And if you haven’t already, press “play” on the below video to experience the Emporio Armani fashion show in full.