“I am so fab” are the opening lyrics to Lady Gaga’s 2013 hit “Donatella.” For almost 30 years, the designer, Donatella Versace, reigned over the Italian fashion house, Versace. Recently, she announced she was stepping down from her chief creative officer role. Dario Vitale, who was the design director at Miu Miu, will take over the position. Enough about him though, VALLEY has gathered some of her best collections (for Donatella-lovers only, of course).
Spring 2000 Ready-to-Wear
Starting off strong, we have the collection that (practically) made Google Images. For this season, Donatella designed bright swimwear, bold dresses and floral-printed garments. Tight pants and suits contrasted the more silky, lighter looks. It truly represents the Hamptons-esque campiness of the 2000s and VALLEY loves that.
As for the technological invention, singer Jennifer Lopez wore a green gown from that collection (pictured above) to that year’s Grammys. So many people searched online for that image, and as a result, Google created the web service. Now, some might say that wouldn’t have happened if not for J.Lo but VALLEY knows it’s because of Donatella.
Spring 2018 Ready-to-Wear
The year 2018 marked the 20th anniversary of Gianni Versace’s death. To properly remember her brother, Donatella designed the Tribute Collection. Most of the dresses, pants, tops and jackets showed Gianni’s famous Barocco print. The looks progressed in color, starting out with a contrasting black and gold, then moving into pastels and brighter colors.
After the models did their final walk-through, Donatella emerged with supermodels Cindy Crawford, Carla Bruni, Claudia Schiffer and Helena Christensen in golden gowns. This final look was important because Gianni helped their modeling careers soar. Donatella designed this collection with love and it’s clear how much her brother meant to her.
Pre-Fall 2023
Last, but certainly not least, we have Pre-Fall 2023 (also known as La Vacanza). For this collection, Donatella co-designed with pop star Dua Lipa. The pieces, ranging from pastel silk to maximalist prints, created a picturesque luxury scene. Even the darker, more heavier looks had a sense of bold luxury to them with loud polka dots.
Tinted sunglasses and chunky jewelry added flair to looks that were primarily monochrome. To match the luxury of the clothes, the models strutted down a runway near Cannes bay in France. Everything about the show spoke to the joys of summer and the iconic style only Versace can create.
Donatella still remains as chief brand ambassador and will continue to represent and work with the Italian fashion house. Though VALLEY is sad to see her leave the chief creative officer role, it’s been a pleasure to watch her grow as a designer. Long live Donatella and remember, “It’s Versace, not Versachee!”
What are your thoughts on Donatella stepping down? Let us know by messaging us @VALLEYmag!
