An icon of the fashion world; A look at Versace’s 47-year history

Donatella Versace’s legacy in the fashion world is nothing short of monumental. As the younger sister of Gianni Versace, the founder of the iconic Italian luxury brand, she stepped into the spotlight following his tragic murder in 1997. With no formal training in design or business, Donatella faced immense skepticism about her ability to lead Versace into the future. Yet, over nearly three decades as chief creative officer, she defied the doubters, transforming the brand into a global symbol of bold glamour and unapologetic opulence. Her departure, announced on March 12, 2025, marks the end of an era, leaving the fashion world to ponder what lies ahead for Versace under new creative leadership.

Taking over Versace at a time of personal and professional turmoil, Donatella inherited a brand synonymous with excess and celebrity culture, thanks to Gianni’s visionary designs. She didn’t merely preserve his legacy—she reimagined it. Under her direction, Versace embraced a louder, more provocative aesthetic, blending Italian luxury with pop culture flair. Iconic moments, like Jennifer Lopez’s green “Jungle Dress” at the 2000 Grammy Awards, which famously spurred the creation of Google Images, showcased her knack for merging fashion with zeitgeist-defining spectacle. Her personal struggles—grief, addiction, and public scrutiny—only added to her mystique, cementing her status as a resilient fashion icon.

March 19, 2025 | 5:27 am