What Does Versace Mean in Greek Mythology?

Versace is a well-known luxury brand that has made its mark in the fashion world. The name Versace, however, has an interesting origin that can be traced back to Greek mythology. In this article, we will explore the mythological roots of the Versace name and its significance.

The Origin of the Name

The founder of Versace, Gianni Versace, was born in Reggio Calabria, Italy, in 1946. His parents were both dressmakers, and he grew up surrounded by fabrics and design. After studying architecture in Florence for a short time, Gianni decided to pursue his passion for fashion and moved to Milan.

In 1978, Gianni founded his own fashion house and named it after himself – Versace. However, the inspiration for the name came from an unexpected source – Greek mythology.

The Mythological Significance

The name Versace is derived from the Greek word “Βερεσέ” or “Βερεσσέ,” which means “bearer of victory” or “to carry.” It comes from the mythological figure of Perseus who was known for slaying Medusa and rescuing Andromeda.

Perseus was a hero in Greek mythology who was tasked with slaying Medusa, a creature with snakes for hair that could turn people to stone with just one look. To aid him on his quest, Perseus was given a shield by Athena which bore the head of Medusa. With this shield, Perseus was able to defeat Medusa without looking at her directly.

After his victory over Medusa, Perseus continued on his journey and came across Andromeda who had been chained to a rock as sacrifice to a sea monster. He defeated the monster and freed Andromeda from her chains.

Perseus’ triumphs over these two challenges made him a symbol of victory and courage. The name Versace, therefore, pays homage to this mythological figure and the qualities he embodied.

The Versace Logo

The Versace logo is also inspired by Greek mythology. It features the head of Medusa with snakes for hair, just like the shield that Perseus used to defeat her. The logo represents power, strength, and beauty – all qualities associated with the brand.

Conclusion

Versace is more than just a luxury fashion brand – it has a rich history rooted in Greek mythology. The name Versace is a nod to the mythological figure of Perseus and his triumphs over Medusa and the sea monster.

The brand’s logo also pays homage to this myth with its depiction of Medusa’s head. Knowing this backstory adds a deeper layer of meaning to the brand and its iconic imagery.