Donatella Versace Steps Down, Her Style Legacy Remains

Versace - Runway - Milan Fashion Week - Womenswear Spring/Summer 2025

Source: Pietro D’Aprano / Getty

For the past day, the fashion world has been reeling from the news of Donatella Versace stepping down as Creative Director of her namesake brand. The platinum-blonde powerhouse, who has reigned over the label for nearly three decades, announced her departure on March 13. The leadership switch-up is major – signifying the closing of a chapter of the iconic brand that defines ultra-sexy, celebrity-approved, over-the-top luxury.

Donatella Versace brought style, glitz, glam and femininity to her family’s brand

When Donatella took over following the tragic loss of her brother, Gianni Versace, in 1997, she didn’t just maintain his vision—she modernized it. She brought the house into the 21st century with an unapologetic, high-glam aesthetic that dripped confidence and allure. And she did it her way. The fashion world wasn’t convinced she could keep up its legacy. Donatella didn’t have formal fashion training (her words, not ours—she once called working with her brother her “fashion school“).

But instead of trying to imitate Gianni’s work, she made Versace her own. Donatella set the tone for what it means to be an “it girl” designer. Because of her, Versace is a cultural phenomenon, cemented in trend, music, film, and some of the most unforgettable red carpet moments. As the song goes: Versace, Versace, Versace.

Donatella Versace has dressed everyone – from ‘it girls’ to breakout stars to dapper dons.

Versace - Runway - Milan Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2018

Source: Victor VIRGILE / Getty

One of the best things about Donatella as a designer is that she sees all people. As Creative Director, she used her personal and professional platforms to speak for marginalized communities and was/is a staunch LGBTQIA+ advocate. She talked to Harper’s Bazaar UK in 2023 about using her fame to make things better. “It’s not important for me, fame. It’s important for me to have a platform to talk to the young generation, because they are always in my mind, what all the world is going through: the LGBTQ+ movement, people being very racist, still today, which is unthinkable in this world,” she said. “And it’s not just talking about that; one needs to do something about that.” In an industry that still struggles with diversity, Donatella has always embraced it. Some of our favorite Black and Brown fashion slayers have been dressed by Donatella. Jennifer Lopez’s sheer, jungle-print gown at the 2000 Grammys? That was Donatella. The dress was so iconic it reportedly led to the creation of Google Images. Talk about fashion-driven pop culture impact! Serena Williams glowing in a teal-green gown at the Met Gala while pregnant? Also Donatella. Keke Palmer’s recent sultry white paneled gown at the 2025 Vanity Fair Oscars afterparty? A vintage Versace pull – initially worn by Christina Aguilera in 2003 – that’s Donatella, too.

2025 Vanity Fair Oscar Party Hosted By Radhika Jones - Arrivals

Source: Neilson Barnard / Getty

Donatella steps down – so what’s next?

Donatella’s departure is a turning point for the brand. For the first time since its founding in 1978, Versace’s creative direction will no longer be led by a member of the Versace family. Capri Holdings (formerly Michael Kors) currently owns the label, but fashion insiders speculate about an even bigger shift—rumors suggest Prada has an exclusive bidding window to potentially acquire Versace. In her farewell announcement, Donatella expressed gratitude for her time as creative director, reassuring fans that Versace will always be in her DNA. And while she may be stepping away from the design side, she’s not leaving entirely—her new role as global ambassador suggests she will still influence the brand’s image and legacy.

Versace’s identity has been synonymous with Donatella’s bold aesthetic for so long that any major change feels significant. While transitions in creative leadership are expected in fashion, this one comes with an added layer of uncertainty. Will Versace maintain its signature extravagance, or will new leadership take it in a different direction? And if a sale to Prada happens, what does that mean for the brand’s future in luxury fashion?

Celebrity Gallery: 10 Fashion Versace Moments That Will Live Rent Free In Our Heads

As we ponder these questions, we also look back at some of the most iconic red carpet Versace moments she gave us. Thanks to Donatella Versace, there are many to choose from.

1. Lupita Nyong’o at the 2019 Met Gala

Lupita Nyong’o was bright, bold, and beautiful at the 2019 Met Gala, thanks to Donatella Versace. The actress’ look was visually interesting, stunningly vibrant, and stood out on the event’s pink carpet.

2. Dwyane Wade in 2024

While Donatella dressed the fashion girlies, she also made sure the men were sleek too. Dwyane Wade is a Versace fan, who frequently wears the label during red carpet moments.

3. Halle Berry at the 2017 Met Gala

Keeping the Met Gala moments, we are swooning over one from Halle Berry in 2017. The star wore a sheer black fully beaded halter jumpsuit with a dramatic skirt and gold scalloped details.

4. Teyana Taylor slays at the Versace Fall 2019 fashion show

Teyana Taylor attended the Versace Fall 2019 fashion show in a look that was everything! Rocking bright colors, sheer fabrics, and leather, Teyana was a whole moment. The looks sexy elements, feminine touches, and sophisticated edge just screams Donatella.

5. Jon Batiste at the 66th Grammys

It’s the kilt for us! Jon Batiste attended the 66th Annual Grammy Awards in a look that was as sophisticated as it was daring. The singer-producer-artist stunned in a light grey suit featuing a tailored jacket, pants and kilt. The fit show’s Donatella’s range, bold energy, and eye for trend and fit.

6. Cardi B at the 2024 Vanity Fair Oscar Party

Cardi B attended the 2024 Vanity Fair Oscar party in a vintage pull from Donatella Versace. Styled by Kollin Carter, Cardi B was the moment in black lace, beading, and sheered lusciouness.

7. Naomi Campbell at the 74th Annual Golden Globe Awards

We love a couture dress moment – and had just that with Naomi Campbell at the 2017 Golden Globes. The supermodel dazzled on the red carpet and the stage – to present Best Performance by an Actor in a Supporting Role in a Television Series or TV Movie – at the event. Her Versace gown featured an intricate design with one shoulder, a light dusty pink hue, silver and black fringe, and a high slit.

8. Niecy Nash at 'The Book of Clarence' premiere

Niecy Nash gave us major boss vibes at the Los Angeles premiere of The Book of Clarence. Showing off her sophisticated style, she slayed in a bubblegum pink suit from Versace.

9. Serena Williams at the 2017 Met Gala

Serena Williams publicly debuted her baby bump in Versace. While pregnant with her first child, she slipped on a sequined emerald green silk gown with sequins and goddess detailing.

10. Victoria Money at the 2024 Grammys

Victoria Monet was having a moment in 2024. The “On My Mama” songstress took the entertainment industry by storm with appearances, awards, and all the fan love. So it is only fitting that she chose Versace for her the 2024 Grammys. She knew all eyes would be on her and this brown satin gown with a corset bodice and tie-detailed skirt did not disappoint.

Donatella Versace Steps Down, Her Style Legacy Remains

Donatella Versace Steps Down: Let’s Talk About The Future of Versace & The Celebrity Looks We Love

Donatella Versace brought style, glitz, glam and femininity to her family’s brand

Donatella Versace has dressed everyone – from ‘it girls’ to breakout stars to dapper dons.

Donatella steps down – so what’s next?