When Was Versace Founded?

Gianni Versace, an Italian fashion designer, founded the Versace brand in 1978. Since then, the brand has become synonymous with luxury fashion and high-end accessories.

Early Life of Gianni Versace

Gianni Versace was born in Reggio Calabria, Italy, on December 2nd, 1946. He grew up in a family of dressmakers and learned the art of tailoring at a young age. He moved to Milan in the early 1970s and began designing for some of the top fashion houses in Italy.

The Founding of Versace

In 1978, Gianni Versace founded his own company, which he named after himself. The first store was opened in Milan’s Via della Spiga. It was an instant success due to its innovative designs that combined traditional Italian craftsmanship with modern materials.

The Rise of the Brand

Versace’s bold designs and use of bright colors quickly gained popularity among celebrities and fashion enthusiasts alike. The brand’s signature style featured bold prints, daring cuts, and luxurious fabrics like silk and leather.

The brand expanded quickly over the years and started producing accessories such as watches, perfume, home decor products and even hotels!

Gianni Versace’s Untimely Death

In 1997, tragedy struck when Gianni Versace was shot dead outside his Miami Beach home by serial killer Andrew Cunanan. The news shocked the world and left a void in the fashion industry.

Versace Today

After Gianni’s death, his sister Donatella took over as creative director for the brand. Under her leadership, Versace continued to flourish and expand globally. Today it is one of the most recognizable fashion brands worldwide.

  • Versace has stores in over 100 countries around the world.
  • The brand has been worn by celebrities such as Jennifer Lopez, Beyonce, and Lady Gaga.
  • In 2018, Versace was bought by Michael Kors Holdings for $2.1 billion.

Conclusion

The Versace brand has come a long way since its founding in 1978. From its humble beginnings in Milan to becoming a global fashion powerhouse, the brand has remained true to its roots of luxury and innovation. Even after Gianni Versace’s death, his legacy lives on through the brand’s iconic designs and enduring popularity among fashion enthusiasts worldwide.