She is Donatella

Resilience and legacy: the pillars sought by this Italian designer.

 

Her story has not been one of the happiest; on the contrary, this designer's life has been marked by expectations. But also by luxury, eccentricities, and strong decisions. We invite you to learn more about one of fashion's most influential figures in recent decades.

 

The beginning

 

She was born in Italy in 1955. Of those seven decades, at least half have been dedicated to fashion. It all started with her family: of her two brothers, Santos and Gianni, she owes the latter a career as vast as it is media-hyped.

 

Versace: family and purpose

 

Gianni founded the iconic Italian brand Versace in 1978 in Milan, one of the fashion capitals. There, Donatella joined as head of public relations. For some years she was her brother's loyal companion, not in the spotlight herself but appearing by his side at events, parties, and the frenzy of the 80s and 90s.  

 

A turning point

 

Headlines around the world were saturated with news that changed Donatella's life forever. In 1997, her brother, the famous designer, had been murdered. The tragedy presented Donatella with a great challenge: to take charge of a brand that had achieved success, recognition, and a personality that paved its way in the world of luxury. Could she do it?

 

The great challenge

With ups and downs, Donatella took the reins. From the beginning, she made it clear that she could not be compared to her brother, but that her intention would be to continue his legacy. As company director, she also got involved in creative areas and offered a twist that modernized and adapted to the trends of each era she spearheaded for this great project.

 

Her own style

The spotlight found her without her seeking it, but she embraced it cautiously. Surrounded by eccentricities and the challenges of the luxury industry, her image also became a media persona that seems impossible to ignore: platinum blonde hair, a style full of sensuality, and sun-kissed skin made her unique.  

 

The end of an era

In March 2025, Donatella announced her retirement as director of Versace. Almost 30 years later, the news was accompanied by the arrival of Dario Vitale (former design director of Miu Miu) to the position. That same year, Vitale ended his relationship with the brand. Today the brand belongs to the Prada Group.

...

 

Come to Intermoda!

You will have access to thousands of fashion products to boost your business. Get ready because the 85th edition will take place from July 21 to 24, 2026. Register now! Get your badge here.