Donatella Versace Steps Again from Helm of Versace, Marking Finish of an Period

After greater than 25 years on the helm of Versace, Donatella Versace has formally stepped down because the model’s inventive director, marking the top of one in every of trend’s most defining eras.

Donatella, 69, confirmed the information in an Instagram submit on Thursday, March 12, asserting that Dario Vitale could be doing the honors and taking on to change into its Chief Artistic Officer as of April 1, 2025.

The submit learn, “Championing the subsequent era of designers has all the time been vital to me. I’m thrilled that Dario Vitale might be becoming a member of us, and excited to see Versace by new eyes. I wish to thank my unimaginable design crew and all the staff at Versace that I’ve had the privilege of working with for over three a long time.”

“It has been the best honor of my life to hold on my brother Gianni’s legacy,” the submit continued. “He was the true genius, however I hope I’ve a few of his spirit and tenacity.”

“In my new position as Chief Model Ambassador, I’ll stay Versace’s most passionate supporter. Versace is in my DNA and all the time in my coronary heart,” the message, which was signed by Donatella concluded.

Donatella’s departure comes amid important adjustments at Capri Holdings, which acquired Versace in 2018 for $2.1 billion and has just lately been exploring strategic shifts, together with a possible sale of the model.

Donatella took over Versace following the 1997 homicide of her brother, Gianni Versace, and has since been instrumental in shaping the label’s identification within the fashionable period. Her tenure noticed the model broaden its world attain whereas staying true to its signature daring, glamorous and unapologetically horny aesthetic.

From iconic pink carpet moments — like Jennifer Lopez’s unforgettable jungle-print gown on the 2000 Grammys — to reinvigorating the model with star-studded campaigns and collaborations, Donatella’s affect has been simple. Over the previous 12 months, Taylor Swift, Beyoncé, Dua Lipa, Olivia Rodrigo, and Sabrina Carpenter have all turned to her signature designs, cementing her standing as a go-to for music’s largest names.

She’s the most-followed designer on social media, with over 12 million Instagram followers.

Her closing look at Versace’s Milan Trend Week present on Feb. 28 fueled hypothesis of her impending exit. The gathering paid tribute to her brother, Gianni, referencing his final assortment from autumn/winter 1997.

Donatella has lengthy been the driving pressure behind Versace, remaining a hands-on designer all through her tenure. Nevertheless, the nostalgic nod to Gianni’s legacy was seen by many as a symbolic closing chapter for Donatella herself.

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Her departure marks a turning level for the home her brother constructed. As she steps away, the style world might be watching carefully to see what’s subsequent — for each Versace and Donatella herself.