Donatella Versace announced her departure as creative director of Versace on March 13, 2025, marking the end of a 28-year chapter. The iconic designer, who shaped the Italian brand after her brother Gianni’s death, leaves behind a lasting legacy as she steps down.
With no formal design training, Donatella became Versace’s face, blending bold vision with tenacity. “It’s been the greatest honor to carry Gianni’s legacy,” she wrote on Instagram. Her glamorous runway shows, featuring stars like Naomi Campbell and Cindy Crawford, defined the brand’s golden era.
Donatella’s platinum-blond hair and lavish productions became Versace hallmarks. CEO Emmanuel Gintzburger praised her impact: “Versace is what it is today because of her passion.” Her 2017 SS18 show with supermodels like Claudia Schiffer remains unforgettable, cementing her influence.
'It does mark an end of an era for her and her presence will be so missed,' says Lena de Casparis, Deputy Editor of Elle UK, responding to Donatella Versace stepping down as the main designer for the Versace brand pic.twitter.com/ppJq62PV7F
— Reuters (@Reuters) March 14, 2025Dario Vitale takes over as chief creative officer on April 1, the first non-family member. Fresh from Miu Miu, Vitale’s arrival coincides with talks of a $1.6 billion Prada Group acquisition of Versace from Capri Holdings. Donatella welcomed him, saying, “I’m excited to see Versace through new eyes.”
The Donatella Versace exit marks a pivot for the brand. Reflecting on iconic moments, she expressed pride and optimism. “Championing new designers matters to me,” she added, signaling confidence in Versace’s future under fresh leadership.
