The Versace fashion house

Versace is one of the most famous and influential brands on the fashion market. Its founder’s tragic fate has spawned rumours and speculation which continue to this day.

Start

Gianni Versace was born in Southern Italy in 1946. A middle-income family lived in Reggio Calabria. His mother had a small shop-atelier, his father sold electrical appliances.

Since childhood the future fashion designer was fond of drawing famous actresses dressed in unique outfits. Helping his mother in the atelier helped the boy to understand the peculiarities of fabrics, learn to combine different shades and textures, to master cutting and sewing. After a short stint at university, the young man returned home and became his mother’s right-hand man.

The talent of the young man attracted the attention of specialists in the field of fashion and he was invited to Milan. At 25, Versace started to develop his first collection of clothes, which was a success with customers.

Foundation of the fashion house

Joined by his brother Santo and sister Donatella, Gianni decided to found his own fashion house in 1978.

Critics lauded his debut collection of women’s clothing which led the budding fashion designer to open a branded boutique in 1979. This was followed by the men’s line.

He showcased his new collections on an amazing scale, inviting musicians, choreographers and the most famous models.

Peak popularity

Gianni’s fashion house had its heyday in the 80s. During this period Gianni was involved in creating costumes for La Scala. In 1981 a women’s fragrance line was launched. Men’s fragrances joined five years later.

The presentation of the “metallic clothing” was a success, but the creator of the collection began to improve it by reducing the weight.

The product range soon expanded with clothing lines for young and overweight women, a watch collection, bed linen, crockery and carpets.

At the end of the 80s the number of Versace shops in Europe, Asia and the US increased.

Tough times

In 1993 Gianni Versace was diagnosed with cancer which his body managed to cope with.

Despite the success of the business, professional clashes and intra-family conflicts began.

The murder of the fashion house’s founder by Andrew Cunenen in 1997 did damage the company’s reputation considerably, although the real reasons for this tragedy remain unclear.

A new story

Donatella Versace took on the family business and led the company into decline but would fight on. A new phase began in 2002 with the development of a new collection with a traditional style, luxurious and daring. Previous collections had been reorganised or replaced.

Versace’s collaboration with Lamborghini led to the creation of a limited edition collection of men’s accessories.

Today the Versace brand is once again a household name and a deserved success with customers from all over the world. After transferring a majority stake in Michael Kors Holdings in Hong Kong, Donatella remains as creative director and sticks to the inimitable style of her genius brother.