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The world of high fashion is witnessing a seismic shift as Donatella Versace, the iconic face of the Versace empire, takes a step back from her role as Chief Creative Officer. After nearly three decades of commanding the brand's aesthetic, Donatella is moving into a newly created position as Chief Brand Ambassador.
The fashion powerhouse confirmed the transition, reassuring fans that while she may no longer be at the helm of the design process, her heart and soul will forever be intertwined with Versace. This move fuels ongoing speculation about a potential sale of Versace to the Prada Group, a deal reportedly worth a staggering $1.6 billion.
Dario Vitale, the man now set to steer the Versace ship creatively. Previously with Prada-owned Miu Miu, Vitale is an industry force to be reckoned with. His appointment is historic—it marks the first time someone outside the Versace family has been given the reins of the luxury label's design vision.
Donatella, ever the icon, expressed her excitement about this next chapter. She acknowledged the legacy of her late brother, Gianni Versace, the brand's legendary founder, and her commitment to preserving his creative spirit. "It has been the greatest honor of my life to carry on my brother Gianni's legacy. He was the true genius," she reflected.
Vitale officially takes over on April 1, just as the Prada Group inches closer to finalizing its acquisition of Versace. The brand's current CEO, Emmanuel Gintzburger, is confident in Vitale's ability to maintain Versace's DNA while pushing it into an era of growth and transformation.
With Versace's legacy in the hands of new creative leadership, the fashion world waits with bated breath. Will Vitale bring a fresh, boundary-breaking vision, or will he stick to the opulence and grandeur synonymous with the brand? One thing is for sure: the Medusa may have a new sculptor, but its gaze remains as fierce as ever.
