Founded by Gianni Versace in 1978
Founded by Gianni Versace in 1978, Versace is built on the principle of freedom - empowering fearless self-expression through every touchpoint, from fashion, interiors, fragrance, hospitality and more. Its fierce spirit of independence and progressivism fuels its relationships with the world’s most influential figures, positioning Versace at the heart of pop culture.

Where classicism meets rebellion
Versace embraces a life without inhibition or prejudice. It accepts deeply human truths and contradictions: a desire for classicism and innovative craftsmanship, strength and sensuality, quietude yet maximum volume.

A Mediterranean vision of luxury
Versace represents Italian style, deeply rooted in Mediterranean culture, expressed in every aspect of daily life. At the heart of its vision is a constant pursuit of quality.

The House of Versace
The eponymous brand, created and envisioned by fashion designer Gianni Maria Versace (December 2 1946 – July 15 1997), is known for its lavish and exuberant style. The main theme behind Versace is the captivating power of women, making the Medusa emblem a flawless representation of the fashion house. Growing up surrounded by fashion magazines, fabrics and patterns, and influenced by the strong figure of his mother, fuelled his passion and admiration for strong women. Not by chance, the Versace brand is known for celebrating women.

Mr Gianni Versace was fascinated by extravagance. He thought a designer should challenge the rules and break the norm. Being controversial was just natural for him.

Gianni Versace, the visionary genius behind the brand
Gianni Versace was a talented couturier; the way he created his designs was truly unique: he sculpted directly on mannequins giving much relevance to his pieces’ forms. He added many details that had a personal meaning for him. His definition of femininity challenged gender barriers by experimenting with techniques traditionally used in menswear, playing with contrasting proportions and reinterpreting classical references through a contemporary lens.

Gianni Versace was an innovator. He introduced new materials and techniques that would become part of the brand’s legacy. In his own words: “Don’t be into trends. Don’t make fashion own you, but you decide what you are, what you want to express by the way you dress and the way you live.”

Donatella Versace
After his death, Donatella Versace took over the creative direction of Versace and made the brand’s success continue to grow. Having been at the helm of the Versace empire as artistic director since 1997, she oversaw the growth of the group’s luxury clothing lines alongside expansion into accessories and lifestyle categories, bringing continuity to the Maison’s creative vision.

The Versace story is all about family values
The history of Versace has been an eventful one, from the beginnings linked to Gianni and Donatella’s hometown in southern Italy to the rise of the brand under Donatella’s vision. The family values rooted in the Versaces have kept the brand thriving, making the company a heavyweight in the global fashion industry.

