In a landmark shift for the fashion industry, Donatella Versace has announced her departure from the role of creative director at Versace, a position she has held since 1997. The decision, revealed Thursday, comes nearly 30 years after she took the helm following the tragic murder of her brother, Gianni Versace.
Versace, who has been a driving force behind the brand’s extensive campaigns and elaborate designs, will be succeeded by Dario Vitale, formerly of Miu Miu, who will now lead the brand's creative direction. Donatella, at 69, will transition into a brand ambassador role focused on philanthropy and charitable initiatives linked to Versace.
This change in leadership coincides with speculation surrounding a potential acquisition of Versace by the Prada Group. Capri Holdings, which spent €2 billion to acquire the renowned fashion house in 2018, issued an official statement indicating that the changes are part of a well-considered succession plan. They praised Vitale as a “strong design leader” essential for Versace's future.
In her own words shared on her Instagram account with over 12 million followers, Donatella reflected on her profound connection to the brand and her late brother, stating, “It was the greatest honor of my life to carry on my brother Gianni's legacy.” She expressed enthusiasm for fostering new talent and confidence in Vitale’s vision for the brand.
Donatella Versace has dressed many A-list celebrities, from Madonna to Lady Gaga, and is celebrated for iconic designs, such as Jennifer Lopez's famous green jungle dress. Always a vibrant figure in fashion, she embodies the essence of the brand with her signature bold prints and platinum hair.
Since the brand's founding in 1978 alongside her brothers, the travel through fashion history has been significant, with Versace contributing substantially to Capri's projected €5.2 billion revenue for 2024. As Dario Vitale steps into this role, the fashion world is keenly watching how the iconic brand will evolve under new leadership.
Versace, who has been a driving force behind the brand’s extensive campaigns and elaborate designs, will be succeeded by Dario Vitale, formerly of Miu Miu, who will now lead the brand's creative direction. Donatella, at 69, will transition into a brand ambassador role focused on philanthropy and charitable initiatives linked to Versace.
This change in leadership coincides with speculation surrounding a potential acquisition of Versace by the Prada Group. Capri Holdings, which spent €2 billion to acquire the renowned fashion house in 2018, issued an official statement indicating that the changes are part of a well-considered succession plan. They praised Vitale as a “strong design leader” essential for Versace's future.
In her own words shared on her Instagram account with over 12 million followers, Donatella reflected on her profound connection to the brand and her late brother, stating, “It was the greatest honor of my life to carry on my brother Gianni's legacy.” She expressed enthusiasm for fostering new talent and confidence in Vitale’s vision for the brand.
Donatella Versace has dressed many A-list celebrities, from Madonna to Lady Gaga, and is celebrated for iconic designs, such as Jennifer Lopez's famous green jungle dress. Always a vibrant figure in fashion, she embodies the essence of the brand with her signature bold prints and platinum hair.
Since the brand's founding in 1978 alongside her brothers, the travel through fashion history has been significant, with Versace contributing substantially to Capri's projected €5.2 billion revenue for 2024. As Dario Vitale steps into this role, the fashion world is keenly watching how the iconic brand will evolve under new leadership.
