Gianni Versace was an Italian fashion designer who founded the iconic luxury brand, Versace. He was known for his bold designs, vibrant colors, and extravagant fashion shows that made him a staple in the fashion industry during the 1980s and 1990s. However, his life was tragically cut short when he was shot and killed in front of his Miami Beach mansion in 1997.
After Gianni’s death, the future of Versace became uncertain. Who would take over the brand?
Would it continue to thrive without its visionary founder? These were questions that were on the minds of many fashion enthusiasts around the world.
Donatella Versace Takes Over
The answer to these questions came quickly after Gianni’s death when his sister, Donatella Versace, stepped up to take over as Creative Director of Versace. Donatella had been working alongside her brother since the early days of the company and had already made significant contributions to its success. She was known for her impeccable sense of style and her ability to push creative boundaries.
Under Donatella’s leadership, Versace continued to thrive and expand its reach globally. She brought her own vision to the brand while also staying true to Gianni’s legacy by incorporating his signature style elements into each collection.
The Next Generation
Today, Donatella remains at the helm of Versace as Creative Director but she has also brought on a new generation of designers to help carry on her brother’s legacy. Her daughter, Allegra Versace Beck, inherited 50% of the company when she turned 18 in 2004 and has since become involved in its day-to-day operations.
In addition to Allegra, Donatella has also brought on new talent such as Anthony Vaccarello who served as Creative Director from 2015-2016 before moving on to Saint Laurent. In 2018, Donatella appointed British designer, Michael Burke, as the new CEO of Versace.
A Lasting Legacy
While Gianni Versace may no longer be with us, his legacy lives on through his iconic brand. Under the leadership of Donatella and her team, Versace continues to push creative boundaries and set trends in the fashion industry. The brand has expanded into new markets and continues to attract a loyal following of fashion enthusiasts around the world.
In conclusion, Donatella Versace took over as Creative Director of Versace after her brother Gianni’s tragic death in 1997. She has since brought on a new generation of talent to help carry on his legacy and ensure that the brand continues to thrive for years to come. With its bold designs and vibrant colors, Versace remains a staple in the fashion industry and a testament to Gianni’s enduring creativity.