Venice, the city of canals and romance, became the stage for a glamorous night of haute couture and celebrity sightings on Saturday, September 2, 2023. Italian fashion designer Giorgio Armani, known for his elegant and timeless creations, presented his latest collection of Armani Prive, the brand's exclusive line of custom-made garments, at the historic Arsenale complex, as part of his "One Night Only" international series of events.
The show, which coincided with the 80th edition of the Venice Film Festival, was attended by some of the biggest names in Hollywood and the fashion industry, such as actors Kerry Washington, Jessica Chastain, Benicio del Toro, Sophia Loren, and model Madisin Rian. The guests were treated to a spectacular display of craftsmanship and creativity, as Armani showcased his vision of beauty and sophistication inspired by the city of Venice.
The collection featured a variety of silhouettes and colors, from sleek black and white suits and dresses to sparkling gowns in pastel hues of lavender, pale orange, and teal. The rhombus motif was a recurring element throughout the collection, adding geometric patterns and texture to the fabrics. Sequins and crystals embellished many of the pieces, creating a dazzling effect under the lights.
The soundtrack for the show was equally fitting, as the models walked down the runway to the tune of The Four Seasons, composed by Venice's own Antonio Vivaldi. The music added a touch of classical elegance and drama to the atmosphere, enhancing the mood and the emotions of the audience.
After the show, Armani hosted a lavish cocktail party for more than 700 guests at the Tese delle Nappe, where they enjoyed a live performance by singer Roisin Murphy and a DJ set by Mark Ronson. The party was a celebration of Armani's long-standing relationship with Venice and its film festival, which dates back to 1990, when he organized a grand event for director Martin Scorsese's documentary Made in Milan.
Armani also received a special honor from the Major of Venice, Luigi Brugnaro, who presented him with a Golden Lion in Murano glass as "a gesture of recognition for a figure and a brand with an international dimension". Armani expressed his joy and gratitude for the award, saying that it was "an important acknowledgment of my work" and that he organized the event to pay tribute to the city to which he has been "so strongly attached for many years".
The "One Night Only" event in Venice was designed by Armani to have a minimum environmental impact, in compliance with ISO 20121 standards. The event followed previous editions in London, Tokyo, Beijing, Rome, New York, Paris, and Dubai. Armani said that he chose Venice as his latest destination because it is a "unique place in the world" and that he wanted to "celebrate its beauty and its culture".
