Is Versace a Common Last Name?

When you hear the name “Versace,” the first thing that comes to mind might be the high-end fashion brand. But is Versace a common last name in Italy or elsewhere Let’s take a closer look.

Origins of the Versace Name

The Versace family originates from Reggio Calabria, a city in southern Italy. The name “Versace” is said to have originated from the Latin word “versare,” which means “to turn” or “to overturn.”

According to family lore, the name was given to an ancestor who was a wool-spinner and would frequently rotate or “turn over” his wares. Over time, this evolved into the surname we know today.

Popularity of the Versace Name

While the Versace name may be well-known thanks to the fashion brand founded by Gianni Versace in 1978, it’s actually quite rare. In fact, according to Italian surname distribution data, there were only 387 people with the last name Versace in Italy as of 2019.

In comparison, more common Italian surnames like Rossi and Ferrari have hundreds of thousands of individuals with those names.

The Legacy of Gianni Versace

Despite its rarity as a last name, there’s no denying that Gianni Versace made a significant impact on the fashion industry during his lifetime. From dressing some of Hollywood’s biggest stars to revolutionizing runway shows with his theatrical presentations, he cemented himself as one of fashion’s most iconic figures.

Tragically, Gianni was murdered outside his Miami Beach home in 1997 at just 50 years old. Today, his sister Donatella carries on the Versace legacy as the brand’s creative director.

In Conclusion

So, is Versace a common last name Not exactly.

While it may be a household name thanks to the fashion brand, there are relatively few individuals with this surname in Italy and elsewhere. Regardless, the impact of Gianni Versace on the fashion industry will continue to be felt for years to come.