The Versace Era at Versace Is Ending
The New York Times
Dario Vitale will be the brand’s new designer.
Donatella Versace has taken her last runway bow.
Ms. Versace, the younger sister of the founder Gianni Versace and the woman who stepped in to safeguard the company after his murder in 1997, is leaving her post as chief creative officer after almost 30 years. She will become chief brand ambassador, an honorary role involving philanthropy and red carpets (and red carpet philanthropy). Dario Vitale, the former design and image director of Miu Miu, has been named the new designer.
In a release on Thursday announcing the news, John D. Idol, the chief executive officer of Capri Holdings, which owns Versace as well as Michael Kors and Jimmy Choo, called the decision “part of a thoughtful succession plan.”
The change comes as Capri is considering the sale of Versace after the Federal Trade Commission blocked an attempted merger with Tapestry, the owner of Coach and Kate Spade. Prada currently has an exclusive bidding window on the brand, according to someone close to the situation but not officially authorized to speak on the subject.
Ms. Versace, 69, has long been the embodiment and the guiding spirit of Versace, but she was never supposed to be its designer. She assumed that role after her brother was shot on the steps of his Miami mansion. Despite having no formal fashion training, she grew into a beloved figure within the company and the industry.
“It has been the greatest honor of my life to carry on my brother Gianni’s legacy,” Ms. Versace said in the news release. “He was the true genius, but I hope I have some of his spirit and tenacity.”
