After nearly 30 years at the helm, Donatella Versace is bowing out as Versace’s creative director.
But as Fashionista reports, she’s not departing completely. Last week, parent company Capri Holdings announced she will step into the role of chief brand ambassador, effective April 1. Dario Vitale, Miu Miu’s former design and image director, will succeed Donatella Versace as creative director.
“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,” Donatella Versace said in a statement. “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 […] 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.”
Vitale added: “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.”
Donatella Versace famously took the helm of the Italian luxury house following the murder of founder — and her older brother — Gianni Versace. Since then, she’s played a core role in cementing Versace as an industry — and Hollywood — favorite. Her iconic green jungle dress worn by Jennifer Lopez, and its role in the invention of Google Images, is just one example of her impact.
With her signature platinum blonde hair and lovable, candid personality, Donatella Versace is one of the most recognized designers in the world and a celebrity in her own right. “Versace is what it is today because of Donatella Versace and the passion she has brought to her role every day for nearly thirty years,” Emmanuel Gintzburger, CEO of Versace, said in a statement. “The universal values she stands for and her love for uncompromised creativity anchored Versace far beyond a brand or a company.”
This leadership shuffle comes amidst speculation that Capri Holdings — which acquired the brand in 2018 for $2.1 billion – is looking to sell Versace. Prada Group is reportedly among potential investors.
The pressure is now on for Vitale, who must balance continuing Versace’s established legacy while proposing something new. He joins a growing roster of newly appointed creative directors at luxury houses, including, most recently, Jil Sander’s Simone Bellotti.
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