With the departure of the influential creative director from the renowned Italian fashion house, we take a nostalgic journey through some of the most unforgettable designs crafted under the guidance of Donatella Versace.
ADVERTISEMENTFollowing the announcement that Donatella Versace is stepping down after a 28-year tenure as the creative director since her brother’s tragic passing in 1997, we look back at her groundbreaking influence on fashion with some of her most iconic designs.
The transition marks an end to her reign as the creative helmsman, yet she will continue her role as a brand ambassador. Meanwhile, Dario Vitale, previously Prada Group’s Miu Miu design director, is set to take over as the new creative director from April 1st.
As we bid farewell to her era of creative authority, let’s reflect on the significant style statements she made.
J-Lo’s Iconic Green Dress
This dress is the epitome of Versace’s impact — Jennifer Lopez’s 25-year-old Grammy appearance in a green silk chiffon dress that has secured its place in fashion history. This moment marked Donatella’s emergence from the shadow of her brother’s legacy.
The Dress from 13 Going on 30
The 2004 film 13 Going on 30 showcased Jennifer Garner in a dance number that was unforgettable not for its star-studded cast, but for the stunning dress Garner wore.
Supermodels of Versace
Both Gianni and Donatella Versace were masters at leveraging the power of iconic models like Elizabeth Hurley, Jennifer Lopez, Cindy Crawford, Naomi Campbell, Claudia Schiffer, Helena Christensen, and Carla Bruni to carry their designs across the runways and into the cultural zeitgeist.
The Dua Lipa and Megan Thee Stallion Presentation
Donatella’s flair for theatre reached new heights at the 2022 Grammys when Dua Lipa and Megan Thee Stallion presented in matching Versace outfits, culminating in a dramatic reveal by Donatella.
Beyoncé at the BET Awards
For the 2003 BET Awards, Versace provided Beyoncé with a daring look that exemplified the fashion house’s ability to craft statement pieces that went beyond traditional runway fashion.
Lady Gaga’s Super Bowl Performance
The pinnacle of partnership between Versace’s grandiosity and Gaga’s artistic vision was her 2017 Super Bowl performance. The collaboration resulted in a look that perfectly encapsulated both Gaga’s style and Versace’s flair for the extraordinary.
Which of these legendary looks resonates with you the most?
