Donatella Versace passes the torch to Dario Vitale after 28 years of reigning supreme
A new page is being turned at Versace. After almost three decades at the helm of design, Donatella Versace hands over her post to Dario Vitale, marking a major turning point in the history of the Italian house.
An indelible legacy left by Donatella
Following the tragic assassination of her brother Gianni Versace in 1997, Donatella took the reins of the brand’s artistic direction, carrying its flamboyant and audacious legacy through the ages. Under her leadership, Versace continued to embody exuberant, glamorous fashion, seducing celebrities and catwalks the world over.
From now on, she will take on the role of “Chief Brand Ambassador”, a position that will enable her to remain the emblematic face of the house. “It has been the greatest honor of my life to carry on Gianni’s legacy. He was the true genius, but I hope I was able to pass on some of his spirit and tenacity. Versace is in my DNA and will always remain in my heart,” she said with emotion.
Dario Vitale: a breath of fresh air for Versace
The choice of 41-year-old Dario Vitale as artistic director is highly strategic. A graduate of Istituto Marangoni, this designer first cut his teeth at Dsquared2 and Bottega Veneta, before joining Miu Miu in 2010, where he rose through the ranks to become ready-to-wear and image director.
His arrival at Versace marks a turning point, as for the first time in 47 years, the house will no longer be run by a member of the Versace family. ” I’m honored to join Versace and contribute to the growth of this legendary house,” says Dario Vitale, expressing his desire to preserve the Versace DNA while bringing his contemporary vision to the table.
An uncertain but promising future
This announcement comes at a particularly opportune time, with persistent rumours of a potential takeover of Versace by the Prada group. Such an acquisition could breathe new strategic life into the brand, while paving the way for unprecedented collaborations.
Whatever the case, the Vitale era begins under the spotlight, with a highly anticipated first collection that will undoubtedly mark a new stage for Versace.
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