Donatella Versace Steps Back from Helm of Versace, Marking the End of an Era for Fashion House

After nearly 30 years at the helm of Versace, Donatella Versace officially stepped down as a creative director of the brand to become his global ambassador, marking the end of one of the most fashionable erats.

Donatella, 69, took over Versace after the murder of her brother Gianni Versace of 1997 and has since been crucial in the design of the identity of the label in the modern age. Her mandate saw the brand expanding its global reach, while it remains true to its signature with a bold, glamorous and unpologne sexy aesthetics.

On Thursday, March 12, the designer confirmed the news in the post on Instagram, announcing that Dario Vitale would take over to become the Creative Director of the brand of April 1, 2025.

The post was: “The advocacy of the next generation of designers was always important to me. I am delighted to join Dario Vitale and excited to see Versace through new eyes. I want to thank my incredible design team and all employees in Versace with whom I had a privilege to work for more than three decades. ”

“It was my greatest honor in my life to continue the legacy of my brother Gianni,” the post continued. “He was a real genius, but I hope I have a part of his spirit and perseverance.”

Donatella Versace.

Taylor Hill/Filmmagic

“In my new role as the ambassador of the main brand, I will remain Versace’s most striking fan. Versace is in my DNA always in my heart,” concluded the message signed by Donatella.

The news comes after Wwd He had previously reported that Vitale was to leave his role as a design director in Miu Miu in late January 2025.

Vitale said he was “truly honored” for taking the role in a statement shared on Versace Instagram.

Donatella Versace announces that he is leaving.

Versace/Instagram

“The Versacea House has a unique heritage that has stretched for decades and has shaped the history of fashion,” he added.

“I want to express my sincere gratitude to Donatelli for trusting me and for the tireless commitment to the extraordinary brand like Versace today,” said Vitale.

“It is a privilege to contribute to the future growth of Versace and its global influence through my vision, expertise and dedication,” he concluded.

Dario Vitale.

Arnold Jerocki/Getty

The departure of Donatello comes due to significant changes in the Capri Holdings, which Versace in 2018 bought for $ 2.1 billion and recently explored strategic shifts, including potential brand sales.

From the iconic moments on the red carpet-after the unforgettable Jennifer Lopez dress, in Grammys 2000, until the reinforcement of the brand with campaigns and cooperation stars, the influence of Donatella was undeniable. Over the past year, Taylor Swift, Beyoncé, Dua Lipa, Olivia Rodrigo and Sabrina Carpenter turned to their signature design, cementing their status as the greatest music names.

Donatella Versace during dinner at King Charles Highgrove’s house, February 07, 2025 in Tetbury, England.

Finnbarr Webster/Getty

Donatella Versace participates in the King Charles dinner in a sexy dress covered with 1,500 crystals (exclusive)

She is a fashion designer with the most tracking on social networks, with over 12 million followers on Instagram. In the post on Instagram on March 13, Donatella paid tribute to her late brother. “I hope I’ve been proud of you so far,” she wrote.

Her performance at Versace’s exhibition of Milan Week on February 28 encouraged the speculation about her upcoming exit. The collection paid tribute to her brother Gianni, referring to her last collection from the fall/winter 1997.

Donatella has long been Versace’s driving power, she remained a practical designer during her term. However, the nostalgic nods of Gianni’s legacy considered many a symbolic capitula for Donatella herself.

Fashion designer Donatella Versace Masha Pisto at Versace Fashion Show during Milan Fashion Week – Fall/Winter Clothing 2025/2026 28. February 2025 in Milan, Italy.

Estrop/Getty

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Her departure indicates a turning point for the house built by her brother. When he stepped up, the fashion world will watch carefully to see what follows – both Versace himself and Donatel.

Categories: Trends
Source: HIS Education