Donatella Versace, sister of the late Gianni Versace, has stepped down from her role as creative director of Versace after 28 years in the role.
As Donatella, 69, confirmed in an announcement shared on Instagram, she's stepping away from the top creative role at the luxury fashion house, which she's been a part of since it was founded in 1978. She initially served as vice president and became creative director in 1997 following her brother's murder. She also briefly served as Versace's chief executive officer from 1997 to 2004.
"Championing the next generation of designers has always been important to me," said Donatella in her statement, revealing that Dario Vitale will succeed her in the top creative role for Versace. "I am thrilled that Dario Vitale will be joining us, and excited to see Versace through new eyes. I want to thank my incredible design team and all the employees at Versace that I have had the privilege of working with for over three decades."
Donatella said that it was "the greatest honor" of her life to carry on the legacy of her later brother. "He was the true genius, but I hope I have some of his spirit and tenacity," she continued. "In my new role as Chief Brand Ambassador, I will remain Versace's most passionate supporter. Versace is in my DNA and always in my heart."
Vitale will take on the role of chief creative officer for Versace. Before taking on the position, he previously worked with Bottega Veneta and Dsquared2, most recently serving as the design director of Miu Miu. His first collection for Versace, the first not predominately designed by the family that founded the house, is expected to debut in Milan in September.
“I am truly honored to join Versace as the chief creative officer and to be a part of this special and powerful fashion luxury house created by Gianni and Donatella,” said Vitale. "The House of Versace has a unique heritage that has spanned decades and has shaped the history of fashion.”
