Donatella Versace Leaves Versace

After 30 years as the creative director and face of Versace, Donatella Versace leaves Versace, stepping down as the brand’s chief creative officer—a role she took on after the passing of her brother, Gianni Versace. She transformed and expanded the brand’s identity while staying true to its roots, signature bold style, and glamorous aesthetic.

PHOTO: Donatella Versace on Instgram

Dario Vitale, formerly the design director at Miu Miu will take over from Donatella as chief creative officer starting April 1st. The fashion industry and lovers of Versace anticipate how Dario Vitale’s vision and the direction he will take influences Versace’s future collections, campaigns and overall brand identity. “Championing the next generation of designers has always been important to me. I am thrilled that Dario Vitale will be joining us, and excited to see Versace through new eyes.” Donatella shared this on her Instagram. She remains deeply connected to the brand, expressing her enduring passion and commitment to Versace’s legacy. “Versace is in my DNA and always in my heart” She wrote this heartfelt statement to conclude her departure.

PHOTO: Donatella Versace on Instagram

Her exit from the brand leaves behind some notably iconic moments. Some include the green jungle print dress that Jennifer Lopez wore to the 2000 Grammy Awards that led to the creation of Google Images. Her tribute to her brother by bringing back 90s supermodel icons including Naomi Campbell, Cindy Crawford, Claudia Schiffer, Helena Christensen and Carla Bruni. The Versace X H&M collection in 2011 that sold out instantly, one of the most successful designer collaborations ever. The 2023 Dua Lipa X Versace Collection name “La Vacanza” which debuted in Cannes, blending Versace’s signature sexy glamour with Dua Lipa’s modern pop-star aesthetic. And lastly overall keeping Gianni Versace’s legacy alive. Donatella has worked tirelessly to honour her brother Gianni Versace’s vision while evolving the brand. Donatella Versace’s time as Chief Creative Officer has been marked by glamour, reinvention, and pop-culture defining fashion moments, securing her place as one of the most influential designers of the 21st century. Her legacy will go down in history.

By Jake Pulham
Jake is on LinkedIn and Instagram