Donatella Versace, the creative director of Versace, has stepped down from her position. She held that position for almost three decades after her brother’s death in 1997, and now she will become the brand’s Chief Brand Ambassador instead.
Where did Donatella Versace announce the news?
The news of Donatella Versace stepping down was confirmed by her through her Instagram account. According to PEOPLE, Dario Vitale, the former design and image director at the brand Miu Miu, would become the brand’s chief creative officer starting from 1 April 2025.
It hasn’t been announced if Donatella would be stepping down immediately or if she would step down by 1 April.
Donatella Versace’s statement was released on 12 March 2025 and it read as follows:
“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.”
Why is Donatella stepping down?
According to Fortune, Donatella’s decision to step down comes amid many rumours surrounding the brand. It is reported that Prada, Versace’s competitor, is in talks to buy the brand.
Reuters has also reported that Versace witnessed a “6.6% drop in revenues” at the end of the fiscal year in March 2024. Sales are predicted to fall to $810 million (14 823 000 000R) in 2025. This might be the reason behind the changes happening at the brand.
This new addition to the brand will bring forth a new set of eyes which might help Versace improve its position in the fashion industry and increase its revenues.
Donatella Versace remembering her brother
Donatella Versace took over the brand after her brother, Gianni Versace, was killed in 1997.
In her statement, Versace wrote: “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 an Instagram post on her account, Donatella Versace posted some of the iconic looks she was behind with the caption “I hope I’ve made you proud so far” written in a nod to her late brother.
In addition to this, Versace’s Milan Fashion Week show on 28 February paid tribute to her brother. The collection was inspired by Gianni’s final collection. The tribute led some to speculate that Donatella’s exit was imminent. Now, Dario Vitale is ready to start his new position.
How did Donatella influence fashion?
Donatella has been the driving force at Versace for years. She left a clear impact on fashion, especially with some of the iconic looks she was behind. This includes Jennifer Lopez’s famous jungle-print dress at the 2000 Grammy’s.
According toGQ, this dress was the reason behind Google creating the Google images search function because of how many people were searching for it.
Donatella has also been the first choice in recent years for a lot of high-profile singers including Taylor Swift and Dua Lipa. This reflects how valuable her vision is.
One of the South African celebrities that Donatella worked with is Tyla whom the designer said she exudes “power” and “confidence.”
What did Dario Vitale say about his new role?
According to Page Six, Dario Vitale, Donatella Versace’s successor, has shared a statement through the brand’s official Instagram. The statement was posted on the account’s stories:
“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.”
Vitale also said that he is “truly honored” to be chosen for this new role.
How did celebrities react to Donatella Versace’s exit?
Throughout the three decades Donatella spent at the helm of the brand, she has grown close to a lot of celebrities. This is why many celebrities left comments on her last Instagram post.
Anne Hathaway: “You are the greatest Versace icon, and the most wonderful human. Auguri!!”
Channing Tatum: “You are the beating heart of Versace and always will be. We love you!”
Eiza Gonzalez: “We love you so much Donatella!! A living legend”
Gigi Hadid: “I love you so much! You have given us (the world) so much!”
Sabrina Carpenter: “One and only”
Dua Lipa: “I love you so much!!”
Celebrities from the fashion industry have reacted to the news as well. Model Linda Evangelista wrote under one post “Again and again.” She also left another comment saying “Love you Donatella” under another post.
British-American fashion designer Harris Reed also wrote “Always and forever”
What are your thoughts on Donatella’s departure from Versace?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1.
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