If you are a fashion enthusiast, you would be familiar with the brand Versace. The Italian luxury fashion brand has been around for over four decades and has become a household name in the fashion industry.
But have you ever wondered who is behind Versace? Who are the people responsible for creating and managing this iconic brand? In this article, we will delve into the history of Versace and explore the key figures behind it.
The Early Days of Versace
Versace was founded in 1978 by Gianni Versace, an Italian fashion designer. Gianni was born in Reggio Calabria, Italy, in 1946.
He grew up in a family that was involved in the fashion industry, with his mother being a dressmaker and his older brother Santo being a designer. Gianni started working in the family business at an early age and soon developed a passion for fashion design.
In 1978, Gianni founded his own fashion house, which he named after himself – Versace. His first collection was showcased at the Palazzo della Permanente Art Museum in Milan, Italy. The collection was an instant success and received critical acclaim from the fashion industry.
Gianni Versace’s Legacy
Gianni’s designs were known for their bold prints, bright colors, and daring cuts. He was famous for using luxurious materials such as silk and leather to create his garments. His designs were worn by celebrities such as Princess Diana, Madonna, and Elton John.
In 1997, tragedy struck when Gianni was shot dead outside his Miami Beach home by serial killer Andrew Cunanan. His death shocked the world of fashion and left a void at the helm of Versace.
Following his death, his sister Donatella Versace took over as creative director of the brand. She had previously worked alongside her brother as a muse and adviser. Donatella’s designs have continued to embody the bold and daring spirit of Versace, while also adding her own unique touch to the brand.
The Key Figures Behind Versace Today
Today, Versace is owned by the Capri Holdings Limited, a multinational fashion company. The current CEO of Capri Holdings is John D. Idol, who has been credited with turning around the fortunes of the company. Under his leadership, Capri Holdings has acquired other luxury fashion brands such as Jimmy Choo and Michael Kors.
Donatella Versace remains the creative director of the brand and is responsible for designing each collection. Her designs continue to push boundaries and challenge traditional ideas of fashion. She has also been an advocate for diversity in fashion, using models of different ages, sizes, and ethnicities in her shows.
In conclusion, Versace is a brand that has been shaped by several key figures throughout its history. From its founder Gianni Versace to its current creative director Donatella Versace and CEO John D. Idol, each individual has played a significant role in making it the iconic brand that it is today. With its bold designs and daring spirit, Versace continues to be a favorite among fashion enthusiasts around the world.