Donatella Versace Steps Down as Head of the Italian Brand

After nearly 30 years in the industry, Donatella Versace is stepping down as chief creative officer of the luxury Italian brand and will transition to the role of chief brand ambassador.

The designer took on the role in 1997 after the passing of her brother, Gianni Versace, the company’s founder. Despite having no prior experience in design, she has become a household name in the world of high fashion.

“It has been the greatest honor of my life to carry on my brother Gianni’s legacy,” Versace stated on Instagram. “He was the true genius, but hope I have some of his spirit and tenacity.”

She also paid tribute to her brother in a separate Instagram post, writing, “I hope I’ve made you proud so far.”

Donatella Versace has been the driving force of modern Versace. She became one of the most widely loved and respected names in the industry, building upon the fashion empire her brother started in 1978. Since the company’s founding, celebrities across the globe have sported Versace pieces, including Taylor Swift, Jennifer Lopez, Britney Spears, Naomi Campbell, Jennifer Garner, Anne Hathaway, and many more.

Speculation of the designer’s exit arose when she attended the brand’s Milan Fashion Week show in February. The pieces showcased there honored her late brother by drawing inspiration from his final collection: the autumn/fall 1997 collection.

Dario Vitale is taking over the role of chief creative officer. This is the first time that someone outside the Versace family will lead the brand.

“Championing the next generation of designers has always been important to me,” Versace stated. “I am thrilled that Dario Vitale will be joining us, and excited to see Versace through new eyes.”

Vitale previously served as the design and image director of Miu Miu, a position he left in January. His new role will begin on April 1.

“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,” Vitale stated. “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.”

The change comes as the Prada Group closes in on acquiring Versace from Capri Holdings for $1.6 billion. The group owns Prada, Miu Miu, Church’s, Car Shoe, Marchesi 1824, and Luna Rossa.