In a move that signals the end of a glamorous and boundary-pushing era, Donatella Versace steps down as the creative director of Versace after nearly three decades at the helm. But don’t worry — this isn’t goodbye forever. Donatella will remain an integral part of the brand, taking on the role of Chief Brand Ambassador, where she’ll continue to champion Versace’s bold spirit while focusing on charitable initiatives and brand values.
The announcement comes as part of a larger leadership shift at Versace, which has been under the ownership of Capri Holdings since 2018. Starting April 1, Dario Vitale — formerly the design director at Miu Miu — will assume the position of Chief Creative Officer. It marks the first time in the brand’s history that someone outside the Versace family will lead its creative vision.
While Donatella’s departure is a seismic shift for the fashion world, it also opens the door for a new chapter — one that will build on the legacy she crafted while driving the house toward future innovation. And let’s be honest: Donatella isn’t one to fade quietly into the background. Her influence on fashion, pop culture, and the very idea of what it means to be “Versace” is woven into the brand’s DNA.
As we prepare to turn the page, let’s take a walk down the runway and revisit some of Donatella Versace’s most iconic moments from her reign as the queen of bold glamour.
1. The Dress That Broke the Internet (Before It Was a Thing)
In 2000, Donatella sent Jennifer Lopez to the Grammys in that plunging green jungle-print dress. The sheer, daring Versace gown became an instant cultural phenomenon and led to the creation of Google Images (yes, really). In 2019, Donatella and J.Lo did it again, closing the Versace Spring/Summer 2020 show with an updated version that proved lightning can strike twice.
2. Gianni’s Legacy, Donatella’s Vision
When Gianni Versace was tragically murdered in 1997, Donatella took on the daunting task of continuing his legacy. Her Spring 1998 collection was her debut as creative director — and she nailed it. With a softer, more feminine touch, she made the brand her own while preserving Gianni’s fearless aesthetic.
3. The Supermodel Reunion of Our Dreams
At Milan Fashion Week in 2017, Donatella closed the Versace Spring 2018 show with a moment for the fashion history books. To honor the 20th anniversary of Gianni’s passing, she brought out the original supermodels — Carla Bruni, Claudia Schiffer, Donatella Versace, Naomi Campbell, Cindy Crawford, and Helena Christensen — draped in shimmering gold dresses. The audience (and the internet) lost their minds.
4. Versace x Fendi: The Ultimate Fashion Crossover
In 2021, Donatella teamed up with Kim Jones of Fendi for a mind-blowing collaboration called “Fendace.” The collection was a love letter to Italian luxury, blending Versace’s high-octane glamour with Fendi’s sleek sophistication. It was the ultimate power move that showcased Donatella’s willingness to break the mold.
5. A Commitment to Inclusivity and Diversity
Under Donatella’s leadership, Versace became a platform for inclusivity and diversity. She championed models of all backgrounds, body types, and gender identities long before it became the industry norm. Her Spring 2019 show featured a mix of veteran supermodels and rising stars, sending a clear message: Everyone deserves to feel fabulous.
6. Lady Gaga’s 2012 Versace Era
Donatella has always had a knack for blending fashion with pop culture. In 2012, she became muse and collaborator to Lady Gaga, dressing her in archival Versace for the Born This Way tour. Gaga even wrote a song called “Donatella” in 2013, cementing their bond as one of the most fabulous fashion friendships ever.
7. The Return of the Safety Pin Dress
In 1994, Gianni Versace created a black dress held together by oversized gold safety pins, famously worn by Elizabeth Hurley. Donatella brought the look back in 2019, reinventing it with a modern twist for Dua Lipa’s Grammy red carpet moment. It was the perfect mix of nostalgia and reinvention — a Versace specialty.
8. The Met Gala Masterpieces
Donatella has delivered more than a few jaw-dropping Met Gala moments. From Blake Lively’s heavenly gold and ruby gown in 2018 to Kim Kardashian’s wet-look dress in 2019, her designs have become red carpet legends. And let’s not forget her own dazzling appearance as co-chair of the 2018 “Heavenly Bodies” exhibit, proving she’s as much a fashion icon as the women she dresses.
What’s Next for Versace?
As Dario Vitale takes the creative reins, all eyes will be on how he interprets Versace’s legacy while carving out a fresh vision. Meanwhile, speculation is swirling that Capri Holdings may sell the brand to Prada in a billion-dollar deal — a move that could redefine the luxury fashion landscape.
No matter what’s next, one thing is for sure: As Donatella Versace steps down, she leaves behind an indelible mark on the fashion world. Her fearlessness, creativity, and unapologetic glamour have shaped not just a brand, but an entire cultural movement. And while this chapter may be closing, her influence is eternal.
Long live the queen of Versace.
This story first appeared on GRAZIA USA.
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