International

Donatella Versace Steps Down as Versace Creative Director After Nearly 30 Years

Published

1 week ago

Mar 13, 2025.

Dennis

Donatella Versace steps down as creative director after nearly 30 years.
Dario Vitale appointed as her successor, taking over design leadership.
Versace to remain a global brand ambassador and focus on philanthropy.

Donatella Versace will step down as creative director of the iconic fashion house Versace after nearly three decades at the helm.

She took on the role in 1997 following the tragic murder of her brother, Gianni Versace. Over the years, she has overseen numerous fashion campaigns and expanded the brand’s influence beyond clothing, designing hotels and even luxury cars.

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The 69-year-old will be succeeded by Dario Vitale, a former design director at Miu Miu, while she transitions into a new role as a brand ambassador.

Her departure comes amid speculation that the Prada Group may be looking to acquire Versace from its current owner, Capri Holdings, which purchased the brand in 2018 for €2 billion (£1.67bn).

In a statement on Thursday, Capri Holdings announced that Versace would now focus on the brand’s philanthropic initiatives and continue advocating for its global image. The company described the transition as part of a “thoughtful succession plan” and praised Vitale as a “strong design leader” poised to drive the brand’s future growth.

Versace also shared a heartfelt message with her 12 million Instagram followers, calling it “the greatest honour of my life to carry on my brother Gianni’s legacy.” She expressed excitement about Vitale’s appointment, saying, “Versace is in my DNA and always in my heart.”

Throughout her career, Donatella Versace has dressed some of the biggest names in entertainment, including Madonna, Beyoncé, and Lady Gaga. She famously designed Jennifer Lopez’s green jungle dress in 2000 and Michelle Obama’s gown for her final state dinner in 2016.