Donatella Versace hands over the reins to Dario Vitale
The era of Donatella Versace is over. After almost thirty years at the helm of the House, she is stepping down as creative director of Versace, handing over the brand to Dario Vitale, a designer whose name has recently become synonymous with innovation and a fresh take on luxury.
It's not goodbye, but a new role: from April, Donatella Versace becomes Chief Brand Ambassador, remaining an integral part of the House but now focusing on its global impact and philanthropic initiatives.
"Championing the next generation of designers has always been important to me. I am thrilled that Dario Vitale will be joining us, and excited to see Versace through new eyes. I want to thank my incredible design team and all the employees at Versace that I have had the privilege of working with for over three decades.
It has been the greatest honor of my life to carry on my brother Gianni’s legacy. He was the true genius, but I hope I have some of his spirit and tenacity.
In my new role as Chief Brand Ambassador, I will remain Versace’s most passionate supporter. Versace is in my DNA and always in my heart."
- Donatella Versace
Vitale now faces the challenge of reinventing Versace while staying true to the legacy of Gianni Versace. Having joined the House after working at Miu Miu, where he re-launched the brand's aesthetic code, Dario Vitale finds himself at the center of a global fashion reshuffle.
"I am truly honored to join Versace as the Chief Creative Officer and to be a part of this special and powerful fashion luxury House created by Gianni and Donatella. The House of Versace has a unique heritage that has spanned decades and has shaped the history of fashion. I want to express my sincere thank you to Donatella for her trust in me, and for her tireless dedication to the extraordinary brand that Versace is today. It is a privilege to contribute to the future growth of Versace and its global impact through my vision, expertise and dedication."
- Dario Vitale
The shift comes amid a possible deal that could bring Versace back into the Prada Group. Capri Holdings is rumored to be considering a $1.5 billion sale of the brand, which could make Vitale's appointment a strategic move.
Will the new designer be able to strike a balance between Versace's iconic aesthetic and the need for renewal? This is a question that we will see the answer to in his first collection. But one thing is clear-Versace is entering a new era.
