Donatella Versace, the fashion powerhouse, is stepping down from her role as creative director of the renowned fashion house Versace after nearly 30 impactful years. Donatella began her journey as the brand's leader in 1997 following the tragic murder of her brother, Gianni Versace. Under her guidance, the brand flourished, launching iconic fashion campaigns, high-profile hotel designs, and even luxury cars.
At 69, Donatella is transitioning to a new position as brand ambassador while Dario Vitale, previously of Miu Miu, steps into the creative director role. This leadership change comes amid speculation that the Prada Group may seek to acquire Versace from its current parent company, Capri Holdings, which purchased the fashion giant for €2bn (£1.67bn) in 2018.
Capri Holdings released a statement acknowledging Donatella's monumental contributions to the brand and ensuring her continued involvement in philanthropy and charitable initiatives. On Instagram, she expressed gratitude for the opportunity to uphold her brother's legacy and enthusiasm about nurturing new talent in the fashion world.
Donatella has dressed countless celebrities such as Madonna, Beyoncé, and Lady Gaga, solidifying her influence in the fashion realm. The Versace brand, launched in Milan in 1978, remains an influential force within the global fashion industry, accounting for a significant share of Capri's revenue for 2024.
