Key Highlights:

• Donatella Versace to step down as chief creative officer of Versace, ending a nearly 30-year legacy.
• Dario Vitale, former design director of Miu Miu, appointed as new chief creative officer.
• Versace sale discussions intensify, with Prada reportedly interested in acquiring the brand.
• Donatella to take on the role of chief brand ambassador focused on philanthropic efforts.

In a major shift for the iconic fashion brand, Donatella Versace has announced her departure from her role as chief creative officer after nearly three decades at the helm. Starting April 1, 2025, she will transition to the role of chief brand ambassador, focusing on philanthropy and charity work, as announced by Capri Holdings, which owns the Versace brand among others such as Le Monde. This change marks a significant moment not only for Versace but also highlights the ongoing evolution within the fashion industry.

Dario Vitale, who previously served as the design director at Miu Miu, is set to take over the creative reins. Vitale has reportedly been instrumental in Miu Miu's success, with the brand posting a remarkable revenue growth of 97.3% last year amidst wider industry declines. "It is a privilege to contribute to the future growth of Versace," Vitale stated in response to his appointment, emphasizing his respect for the heritage of the iconic brand founded by Donatella’s brother, Gianni Versace, in 1978. This will be the first instance of a non-family member leading the creative direction of the brand, as noted by Business Insider.

Donatella, 69, reflecting on her tenure, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to uphold her brother's legacy. "It has been the greatest honor of my life to carry on my brother Gianni's legacy," she remarked, acknowledging the profound impact Gianni had on the fashion world. Under her leadership, Versace transformed into a household name, renowned for its bold, luxurious designs, most famously encapsulated in Jennifer Lopez's iconic "jungle dress" from the 2000 Grammy Awards. Her visionary designs attracted numerous celebrities, firmly establishing Versace as a symbol of glamour and sophistication.

The announcement of Dario Vitale's new role comes during a period of uncertainty for Versace, as Capri Holdings contemplates selling the brand following a blocked merger attempt with Tapestry, the parent company of Coach and Kate Spade. Rumors indicate that Prada is currently in exclusive discussions to purchase Versace, with potential bids reportedly approaching €1.6 billion, a critical juncture in the brand’s history and strategic positioning within the luxury market. As emphasized by India Times, this reflects not just the transition within the company but also the shifting landscape of high fashion.

As Donatella Versace prepares for her new role, it is clear that her influence on the brand and the industry will continue as she remains its most ardent supporter. The future of Versace will soon lie in the hands of Dario Vitale, as both the fashion house and its legacy await to see how the upcoming changes will unfold.