The Armani Silos in Milan, Italy

I freely admit it…I typically enjoy any fashion/jewelry related museum more than the “historical” ones. To say I’ve seen a few would be an understatement. But never, have I ever, been to one where nothing was behind glass! Have you?

I took an uber to the Armani Silos, an ultra-modern, 4-story museum on Via Bergognone in Milan. It’s recommended that you buy tickets in advance, but I was fortunately there during the off season and lucked out by just walking in. (Note: It is closed Monday/Tuesday.)

The ground floor is home to a rotating exhibition space. I was delighted to take in a wonderful photography exhibition called “Magnum Photos – Colors, Places, Faces,” featuring the works of ten world-renowned photographers.  I’m sure whatever is on tap when you visit will be inspiring. The ground floor is also home to a café and a well-edited bookshop.

Ok, onto the clothing and accessories. Floors 1-3 are home to a history of Giorgio Armani’s work, with over 800 (!) items from 1980 onwards. They are shown on perfectly lit mannequins, with the year and collection clearly labeled. Items are not shown chronologically, but rather by theme. (As a stylist, this layout really appealed to me. It shows how you can purchase items from various years and yet they all work together in a wardrobe.)

The most incredible thing is that all these outfits are out in the open…and you can walk all around them, allowing you to see all the details up close and personal. It’s such an amazing experience!

The first floor showcases more of his androgynous work. Jackets are always a mainstay in his collections, and here you can see how they have evolved over the years, yet all with the singular identity of Armani.

The second floor shows his clothing with various inspirations from other cultures. I took some close-up shots of the intricate details on some of these ensembles.

The third floor is where many “wow” pieces are shown. We are talking black-tie showstoppers! Many have been worn by celebrities, which is no surprise when you see them in person.

The accessories gallery made my jaw drop. Seemingly endless counters of jewelry and bags, organized by color and theme, invite you to dream. I cannot imagine having a closet where things could be laid out this way! And again…the items are just sitting right in front of you. It was SO difficult not to touch them! But the cadre of black-dressed security roaming around kept me in check.

It was SO difficult not to touch them!!

The top floor is also home to a digital archive. However, that area was closed for renovations on my visit.

If you’re a fashion-afficionado like I am, which I assume you are if you’re on my site, then definitely enjoy a visit to the Armani Silos when you’re in Milan. If you want to know where I shop while in Milan, then become a member of The Curated Shopper. I’d love for you to see all the marvelous boutiques the city has to offer!

I’d love for you to see all the marvelous boutiques the city has to offer!