Key Moments from Milan Fashion Week You Might Have Missed

Milan Fashion Week wrapped its Spring/Summer 2026 menswear shows with a clear message: legacy brands are still evolving, comfort is no longer a compromise, and subtle statements are the new spectacle.

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Vivienne Westwood returns to menswear after a decade

One of the week’s most notable moments came with Vivienne Westwood’s return to menswear, marking her first collection in over 10 years. The house leaned into its signature anarchic edge, offering sculptural tailoring, bold prints, and silhouettes that challenged the season’s more restrained tendencies.

While the fashion landscape has changed dramatically since Vivienne’s last menswear showing, the brand’s voice remains distinct and as relevant as ever.

Giorgio Armani delivers 116 looks in a monumental showing

Giorgio Armani continued to assert his dominance with a sprawling 116-look collection. While some questioned the length, the presentation demonstrated the designer’s enduring vision of breezy tailoring, layered textures, and a maritime-inspired palette. It was a masterclass in refinement and consistency, reaffirming Giorgio’s place as a pillar of Milanese fashion.

Paul Smith makes a sharp Milan debut

Paul Smith staged his first-ever show at Milan Fashion Week, marking a significant move for the British designer. The collection struck a balance between tradition and modernity, featuring structured blazers, rich color blocking, and unexpected textures. While less experimental than some of his counterparts, the brand’s debut was confident and considered, bringing a British perspective to Italy’s capital of style.

Setchu introduces Japanese precision to the Milan runway

Another debut worth noting was from Japanese brand Setchu, which brought its minimalist philosophy and engineering-inspired designs to Milan for the first time. Clean lines, architectural tailoring, and an emphasis on restraint defined the collection, offering a contrast to the season’s louder moments.

The rise of pajama stripes and flip-flops

Menswear leaned into softness this season, with pajama-inspired stripes appearing across multiple collections. The trend suggests a continued blurring of private and public dress codes, where bedroom silhouettes now belong on the runway. Footwear followed suit: flip-flops were reimagined in high-end materials and elevated forms. No longer confined to the beach, they’re walking a new line between laid-back and luxury.

Even accessories took on new relevance. Oversized beach totes were given a structured makeover, showing up in leather, technical fabrics, and tailored shapes. These bags, far from casual carry-alls, signal a more polished approach to off-duty dressing.

Photos courtesy Dolce&Gabbana, Vivienne Westwood, Giorgio Armani, Paul Smith, Setchu, Prada, Tod’s