Donatella Versace recently showcased a confident collection at Milan Fashion Week. The show featured the brand’s iconic symbols, including the Medusa, Barocco, and Greca. After the show, Donatella took a bow.
Many wondered if this would be her last appearance as chief creative officer. She has held this position for nearly 30 years. Speculation about a possible sale of Versace to the Prada group added to the uncertainty.
On Thursday, Versace confirmed to CNN that Donatella, 69, would transition to a new role. She will become the chief brand ambassador. In this role, she will focus on Versace’s philanthropic efforts and represent the brand globally.
Dario Vitale has been appointed as the new chief creative officer. This is the first time the role has been filled outside the Versace family. Donatella took over as chief creative officer in 1997 after her brother Gianni’s death.
“It has been the greatest honor of my life to carry on my brother Gianni’s legacy,” Donatella said in a statement. She expressed her commitment to supporting the brand. “Versace is in my DNA and always in my heart,” she added.
Donatella emphasized her dedication to mentoring the next generation of designers. She welcomed Dario Vitale and expressed excitement for fresh perspectives. Vitale will start on April 1. He joins from Prada-owned Miu Miu, where he was the design and image director.
Emmanuel Gintzburger, Versace’s CEO, praised Vitale as a rare talent. He respects the brand’s essence and understands its growth potential. Capri Holdings chairman John D. Idol echoed this sentiment. He noted that the transitions are part of a thoughtful succession plan.
Capri, which owns Michael Kors and Jimmy Choo, is reevaluating its portfolio. This follows a blocked merger deal with Tapestry, which owns Coach and Kate Spade.
