Shockwaves ran through the fashion industry on Thursday March 13 as icon Donatella Versace announced that she was stepping back from the helm of Versace after nearly 30 years. Donatella assumed the role in 1997 after the tragic murder of her brother Gianni Versace. Since then, she has turned the brand into glamorous powerhouse it is today. Assuming the new Creative Director role will be the former Design Director of Miu Miu Dario Vitale. Donatella will remain at the company, but as Versace’s Global Ambassador.
In a statement on Versace’s Instagram, Donatella hailed Vitale and his vision for the future, and paid tribute to her late brother Gianni who founded the company in 1978.
“I am thrilled that Dario Vitale will be joining us, and excited to see Versace through new eyes. I want to thank my incredible design team and all the employees at Versace that I have had the privilege of working with for over three decades. It has been the greatest honor of my life to carry on my brother Gianni’s legacy. He was the true genius, but I hope I have some of his spirit and tenacity,” she said.
She then spoke to her new role as the company’s Chief Brand Ambassador.
“In my new role as Chief Brand Ambassador, I will remain Versace’s most passionate supporter. Versace is in my DNA and always in my heart.”
Donatella was Gianni’s muse and creative partner, and he trained her for the last two years of his life on how to do everything within the company. She kept Versace going, building it into the fashion empire that it is today.
Versace’s Legacy Throughout the Years
Versace was founded in 1978, with Donatella joining Gianni as his vice president. Donatella worked with Gianni across all projects and is often credited for creating and developing the Versace look. A year and three days after his death, Donatella held her first haute couture show for Versace Atelier. Since taking the reins, Donatella has turned Versace into a powerhouse. She’s created campaigns and designed for the industry’s elite, including Beyoncé, Nicki Minaj, Prince, Elton John, Lady Gaga, Cardi B, Megan Thee Stallion, Dua Lipa, and more.
Her final collection as Creative Director was in February 2025 for Milan Fashion Week.
Vitale will assume leadership effective April 1.
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