Donatella Versace is a renowned Italian fashion designer and the sister of the late Gianni Versace, the founder of the luxury fashion brand, Versace. She has been an integral part of the brand’s success, both as a creative director and as a businesswoman. In this article, we will explore how Donatella Versace got rich and became one of the most influential figures in the fashion industry.
The Early Years
Donatella Versace was born on May 2, 1955, in Reggio Calabria, Italy. She grew up in a family that was deeply involved in the fashion industry, as her mother was a dressmaker and her older brother Gianni Versace was already pursuing a career in fashion. Donatella moved to Florence to study languages and later on moved to Milan where she started working for her brother’s fashion label.
Working with Gianni
In 1978, Donatella began working for her brother’s company full-time. She quickly became an important figure in the company’s creative process and helped design some of its most iconic collections. Her talent for design and marketing soon became apparent, leading Gianni to promote her to Vice President.
Expansion of The Brand
Under Donatella’s leadership, Versace expanded its product range beyond clothing to include luxury accessories like bags and shoes. She also helped establish new partnerships with companies like H&M and collaborated with popular musicians like Prince and Elton John.
The Tragic Loss of Gianni
In 1997, tragedy struck when Gianni was murdered outside his Miami Beach home. The sudden loss had a profound impact on Donatella who had to take over the role of creative director while also managing the business side of things. Despite this difficult time, she managed to keep the brand going, ensuring that its legacy would continue.
Donatella’s Success as a Businesswoman
Donatella’s success as a businesswoman is undeniable. Under her guidance, Versace became a global luxury brand with stores in major cities across the world. In 2018, the company reported revenues of €686 million and had over 1,500 employees.
The Role of Marketing
One of the key factors behind Donatella’s success is her savvy marketing strategies. She has always been adept at connecting with younger consumers and has used social media to her advantage. Versace’s Instagram account boasts over 20 million followers and has become an important tool for promoting the brand.
Influence in Fashion
Donatella’s influence in fashion extends beyond just her own brand. She has been a trendsetter for decades and her designs have inspired countless other designers. Her signature style, which often incorporates bold prints and bright colors, is instantly recognizable.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Donatella Versace’s success can be attributed to her talent for design and marketing as well as her ability to navigate the business side of things. She took over the reins of a company that was reeling from tragedy and managed to turn it into a global luxury brand. Today, she continues to be an influential figure in the fashion industry and shows no signs of slowing down anytime soon.