After nearly three decades of steering the creative vision of Versace, Donatella Versace has announced her departure from the position of creative director. At 69 years old, she is embracing a new chapter within the fashion industry while Dario Vitale, formerly of Miu Miu, steps into her place.
**Donatella Versace Steps Down as Creative Director Amid Brand Transformation**
**Donatella Versace Steps Down as Creative Director Amid Brand Transformation**
Donatella Versace, the iconic head of the fashion house, will transition to a new role, passing the torch to Dario Vitale as industry speculation about potential acquisition grows.
Versace's tenure as creative director began in 1997, following the tragic murder of her brother Gianni. Under her guidance, the brand experienced significant global growth, producing hundreds of notable fashion campaigns and diversifying into hotels and automobiles. Capri Holdings, currently overseeing the fashion house, has also hinted at potential interest from Prada Group for a buyout, fueling speculation about the future direction of the brand.
In a formal statement released by Capri Holdings, the company indicated that Versace will focus on charitable initiatives and serve as a global brand ambassador following her departure from day-to-day creative duties. The statement hailed Vitale's creative potential, foreseeing his role as crucial for driving Versace's future success.
Through an emotional post shared with her 12 million Instagram followers, Versace expressed her deep connection to the brand, asserting, “Versace is in my DNA and always in my heart.” She emphasizes her commitment to fostering the next generation of design talent and welcomed Vitale enthusiastically.
Throughout her career, Versace has adorned numerous A-list celebrities, making headlines with her iconic designs, including Jennifer Lopez's legendary green dress and Michelle Obama's elegant attire at her final state dinner. Known for her dazzling prints and signature platinum blonde hair, Donatella Versace has personified the brand she helped elevate since its founding in 1978 alongside her brothers Santo and Gianni.
Having been acquired by Michael Kors Group in 2018, and later integrated into Capri Holdings in 2019, Versace remains a significant contributor to Capri's projected €5.2 billion revenue for 2024, accounting for 20% of the company’s performance.
In a formal statement released by Capri Holdings, the company indicated that Versace will focus on charitable initiatives and serve as a global brand ambassador following her departure from day-to-day creative duties. The statement hailed Vitale's creative potential, foreseeing his role as crucial for driving Versace's future success.
Through an emotional post shared with her 12 million Instagram followers, Versace expressed her deep connection to the brand, asserting, “Versace is in my DNA and always in my heart.” She emphasizes her commitment to fostering the next generation of design talent and welcomed Vitale enthusiastically.
Throughout her career, Versace has adorned numerous A-list celebrities, making headlines with her iconic designs, including Jennifer Lopez's legendary green dress and Michelle Obama's elegant attire at her final state dinner. Known for her dazzling prints and signature platinum blonde hair, Donatella Versace has personified the brand she helped elevate since its founding in 1978 alongside her brothers Santo and Gianni.
Having been acquired by Michael Kors Group in 2018, and later integrated into Capri Holdings in 2019, Versace remains a significant contributor to Capri's projected €5.2 billion revenue for 2024, accounting for 20% of the company’s performance.
