Donatella Versace, who took over after her brother’s 1997 murder, will be replaced by Miu Miu design director Dario Vitale.
Donatella Versace, creative director of the luxury Italian fashion house founded by her late brother Gianni Versace, has stepped down from her position after nearly 30 years.
The 69-year-old will be replaced by Dario Vitale, the former design and image director for the Miu Miu brand, marking the first time a designer role has been filled outside the family.
“Championing the next generation of designers has always been important to me,”
said Donatella Versace in an Instagram statement.
“I am thrilled that Dario Vitale will be joining us, and excited to see Versace through new eyes.”
When Vitale officially takes on the role as chief creative officer on April 1, Donatella Versace will assume her new position as chief brand ambassador.
Her duties will include supporting Versace’s philanthropic and charitable endeavors, along with advocating for the brand globally.
“It has been the greatest honor of my life to carry on my brother Gianni’s legacy. He was the true genius, but I hope I have some of his spirit and tenacity,” she
continued.
“I will remain Versace’s most passionate supporter. Versace is in my DNA and always in my heart.”
Founded in 1978 in Milan, Italy, the fashion company was sold to the Michael Kors group in 2018, before being
acquired by its official U.S. owner, Capri Holdings, the following year.
Vitale’s appointment comes amid speculation that the Prada Group, which owns Miu Miu, is in talks to purchase Versace from Capri Holdings, which
paid over $2 billion for the fashion house.
In a statement on March 13, Capri Holdings Chairman and Chief Executive Officer John D. Idol called Donatella Versace’s decision a “thoughtful succession plan” for Versace and credited Vitale as a “strong design leader.” Vitale said he was honored to join the Versace team, and thanked Donatella Versace for entrusting his expertise in taking the brand to the next level.
“The House of Versace has a unique heritage that has spanned decades and has shaped the history of fashion,” he said. “It is a privilege to contribute to the future growth of Versace and its global impact through my vision, expertise and dedication.” Donatella Versace took over the brand in 1997, after her brother was shot and killed outside his Miami Beach residence by serial killer Andrew Cunanan.
With over 400 licensed stores worldwide and 230 owned boutiques, Versace combines classical and contemporary styles with Italian tradition, evolving with the world’s latest style innovations.
Known for its loud prints such as the Versace Medusa and Greca motifs, the brand quickly became a leader in fashion and culture through its unique designs.
Over the years, Donatella Versace has designed and dressed some of the biggest names in celebrity stardom at home and abroad.
Beyond ready-to-wear fashion, eyewear, fragrances, and watches, the brand has expanded to serve a wider luxury market in areas such as home, jet, and yacht decor and Palazzo Versace hotels.
