Giorgio Armani’s Creative Legacy: Parma Exhibition Extended Through February 2026

The prestigious exhibition titled “Giorgio Armani Archivio CSAC: the genius and creativity of Giorgio Armani,” currently hosted at the historic Valserena Abbey in Parma, has officially been extended until February 15, 2026. This initiative, a collaborative effort between the University of Parma and the Communication Study Center and Archive (CSAC), serves as a profound tribute to the legendary Italian designer following his passing in September 2025. Originally inaugurated on December 13, 2025, the showcase emphasizes the enduring significance of Armani’s contributions to the global fashion landscape.

The setting of the exhibition adds a layer of deep historical resonance to the experience. Valserena Abbey, a former Cistercian monastery established in 1298, has functioned as the headquarters for CSAC since 2007. Within these ancient walls, visitors can explore more than one hundred original artifacts curated from the extensive Giorgio Armani Foundation. This collection is part of a massive archive of over 8,000 items that the designer himself donated to the center during the 1980s, ensuring his creative process would be preserved for future generations.

Central to the exhibition are the design materials, technical drawings, and sketches that document the formative years of the Armani brand between 1975 and 1980. This specific five-year window is highlighted by CSAC Vice-Director Sara Martin as the pivotal era when the designer’s signature identity was forged. It was during this time, Martin notes, that the creator truly evolved into the “Armani” known to the world today, establishing a visual language that would redefine modern elegance.

The displayed works illustrate a radical stylistic shift, most notably through the introduction of the deconstructed jacket and the contemporary women’s suit. By prioritizing fluid lines and wearer comfort, Armani liberated garments from the rigid internal structures and heavy padding that dominated 1970s tailoring. This revolutionary approach not only transformed womenswear but also pivoted masculine fashion toward softer, more approachable silhouettes, effectively laying the groundwork for a gender-neutral interchangeability in the modern wardrobe.

Beyond the garments themselves, the exhibition features a curated selection of press clippings and media that trace Armani’s meteoric rise to international fame and his early intersections with the world of cinema. Iconic film posters serve as milestones of his cultural impact, including Woody Allen’s “Annie Hall” and Paul Schrader’s “American Gigolo.” A key moment highlighted is the 1978 Academy Awards, where Diane Keaton accepted her Oscar for “Annie Hall” wearing an Armani suit, followed by the 1980 release of “American Gigolo,” where Richard Gere’s wardrobe solidified the deconstructed jacket as a global emblem of sophisticated style.

This comprehensive initiative was made possible through the leadership of Paolo Martelli, Rector of the University of Parma, and Sara Martin, with additional support from Barbara Lori, Vice-President of the Legislative Assembly of the Emilia-Romagna region. The archive reveals the master’s meticulous working method, featuring early sketches often accompanied by handwritten notes and specific fabric swatches. By extending the display until February 15, 2026, the organizers ensure that a wider audience can engage with these treasures housed within the Media-Fashion section of the center.