Gianni Versace

The history of the Versace maison is a family story. Gianni Versace was born in Reggio Calabria, where from a young age he learned the craft in his mother's tailor shop. After moving to Milan to pursue a career in the fashion world, in 1973 he became a designer for Byblos, where he worked for several years until he decided to create his own maison. “Gianni Versace Donna” was born in 1978 with the opening of the first boutique in via della Spiga, Milan.
Gianni Versace was the first to experiment with different and contrasting elements in his garments, such as lace paired with leather or studs alongside Swarovski crystals. His peak of fame was reached with the Fall/Winter 1992-93 collection, dubbed “bondage”: tight-fitting black leather dresses studded with studs and buckles walked the runway. In 1993, Gianni Versace conceived the logo that has become the symbol of the Maison: the Medusa head. He said he drew inspiration from some Greek ruins where he used to play with his siblings. References to ancient Greece have since been a constant in Versace creations, with prints featuring decorative motifs such as the Medusa head and the Greek key, as well as architectural and sculptural elements. Prints are part of the Versace DNA, and among the most iconic are baroque patterns, sea treasures, Vogue covers, and Andy Warhol paintings. After his death, his sister took over the creative direction of the brand and has led it with enormous success to this day. Donatella's creations maintain the essence of the brand, proving that Versace, despite being a fashion giant, is a company that has maintained a strong family bond.