It’s the proverbial end of an era. After nearly three decades at the helm, Donatella has stepped down as the creative director of Versace. For the first time in almost 50 years, there won’t be a Versace overseeing the Versace brand’s creations. After Capri Holdings’ acquisition of Versace in 2018, the brand has been fighting a long battle for individuality, keeping true to its roots while adapting to changing times.
Will the essence of the Versace brand be lost with Donatella stepping down? Will Dario Vitale, Miu Miu’s former design and image director, be able to fill her shoes? Will this be the shake-up Versace needed, or the last nail in the coffin for the brand? Will this be the rebirth or burial of Versace?
Some stories unfold with time, some with regrets of ‘should have’, ‘would have’, ‘could have’. In this read, we are talking muses — everyone has them, and so does Donatella. Come, let’s take a look at her iconic inspirations.
1. Supermodels Of The ’90s: The Eternal Runway Icons
Naomi Campbell set the tone for Donatella’s career, opening her first Spring/Summer 1998 show after the tragic loss of Gianni Versace. The ‘90s supermodels remained a core part of Donatella’s world, culminating in an unforgettable reunion for the Spring/Summer 2018 runway.
Heads turned, long legs walked, and Versace made headlines. The moment was nothing short of legendary — Claudia Schiffer, Cindy Crawford, Naomi Campbell, Helena Christensen, and Carla Bruni strutted side by side, proving that timeless beauty and star power never fade.
2. Jennifer Lopez: The Dress That Changed The Internet
Would you believe that Google Images exists because of one dress? At the 2000 Grammys, Jennifer Lopez’s green jungle-print Versace gown became so wildly searched that Google had to create a new feature just to handle the demand.
Donatella and J.Lo recreated that viral moment in Spring/Summer 2020, proving that Versace’s designs aren’t just clothing — they are cultural phenomena.
3. Britney Spears: A Bond Beyond Fashion
Some relationships stand the test of time, and this one is by far a defining one. Both women have endured their fair share of hardships, making them a perfect example of how strong women support each other.
The “Oops!… I Did It Again” singer and Donatella are each other’s inspirations — so much so that when Britney finally decided to get married, Versace made her the bridal dress of her dreams.
4. Lady Gaga: From Muse To Tribute
Few people have the honour of inspiring a designer — but Donatella Versace herself was a muse to two individuals: Her brother, Gianni Versace, and Lady Gaga.
Their artistic kinship went beyond fashion — Gaga dedicated the song ‘Donatella’ to her in the 2013 ARTPOP album. Over the years, she has worn some of the house’s most recognisable designs, from the infamous safety-pin dress (first worn by Elizabeth Hurley) to starring in Versace’s campaigns.
5. Dua Lipa: The Modern Muse
Well, Dua’s duā (wish) became a reality! Dua Lipa didn’t just wear Versace — she became part of it.
From red carpet appearances to co-designing the La Vacanza collection, her journey with the brand was one of gradual evolution. One of her most memorable looks? The sparkling ensemble she donned in her music video for ‘Levitating’.
6. Gigi Hadid: The One Who ‘Had’ It All
When Gigi Hadid first stepped onto the fashion scene, she was ambitious, effortless, and eager to prove herself. Donatella recognised her potential early on, making her a regular on the Versace runway.
With each show, red carpet, and campaign, Gigi proves she wasn’t just a passing muse — she truly “Had” it all, and she’s made Versace her own.
With Donatella stepping down, the fashion world waits with bated breath to see what lies ahead for Versace. Will the brand evolve, or will it fade into the shadows of fashion history? One thing remains certain — Donatella’s legacy and her muses will always be a part of Versace’s DNA.
