Versace

Versace is an Italian luxury fashion house founded by Gianni Versace in 1978. Known for bold prints, vibrant colors, and daring cuts, the brand produces ready-to-wear, accessories, and haute couture under its Atelier Versace label. Its logo, the head of Medusa, nods to the founder's Calabrian roots and the ancient Greek heritage of Magna Graecia. After Gianni's murder in 1997, his siblings Santo and Donatella Versace took over. Donatella's daughter, Allegra Versace Beck, inherited a controlling stake. The company was sold to Michael Kors Limited in 2018 for $2.12 billion, becoming part of Capri Holdings alongside Kors and Jimmy Choo. Donatella remained creative director. In December 2025, Prada Group acquired Versace for $1.375 billion. Two months later, Pieter Mulier, formerly of Alaïa, was named chief creative officer. The brand's influence spans fashion, pop culture, and red carpets, with a reputation for glamour and risk-taking.

Versace operates over 200 boutiques worldwide, with flagship stores on Milan's Via Montenapoleone, New York's Fifth Avenue, and London's Bond Street. The brand generates about $1.1 billion in annual revenue and competes directly with Gucci, Dolce & Gabbana, and Saint Laurent. Its celebrity partnerships include Jennifer Lopez, Lady Gaga, Dua Lipa, and Zendaya. The iconic safety pin dress worn by Elizabeth Hurley in 1994 and Lopez's Grammy dress in 2000 are among its most famous creations. Versace also faced controversies, including the founder's murder, cultural appropriation claims in 2017, and protests from PETA over fur use, which led to a fur-free commitment in 2020.[edit]