Donatella Versace quits: A look at her 5 iconic creations that changed the fashion game

After the assassination of Donatella Versace’s brother Gianni Versace in 1997, the Italian fashion designer and business mogul took over the reins of the brand. Working as the Chief Creative Officer of the brand for more than 30 years now, Donatella Versace finally took her last bow and will start a journey as the Chief Brand Ambassador, involving herself in red carpets and philanthropy.
Upon her exit, the legacy will be carried on by Dario Vitale, as he will take the position of the new designer and creative director of Versace. He was the former design and image director of the brand, Miu Miu. Let’s take a look at some of Donatella Versace’s most iconic fashion designs from her glorious three-decade-long stint that changed the fashion game.

Jennifer Lopez’s jungle-print Versace gown has to top the list. Making a super bold move with the plunged neckline going all down to her navel, this creation marked a turning point for Donatella following the death of her brother in 1997. Fast-forward to three years later, the gorgeous look broke the bank and internet, with Google forced to release the iconic ‘Google Images’ feature.

(Image Credits: Pinterest)

In 2005, with all the drama going on between Beyoncé and Destiny’s Child and their plans to split after the world tour, Beyoncé already had one solo album under her belt. To rock the moment and show her prowess, she held her faith in Donatella Versace, who created a beautiful black Atelier Versace gown featuring a minimal trail and a dramatic sweetheart neckline that soon made the singer a sensation on the red carpet.
(Image Credits: Pinterest)

Penelope Cruz’s pastel pink Versace ensemble was considered regal and a rash choice for the red carpet. However, no one knew that it would ultimately go down as one of the most celebrated looks in the history of the Oscars, with a dedicated Wikipedia page. The chic sweetheart strapless neckline show with tonnes of ruffled feathers was unique back in time, with Donatella being hailed for her pun-intended creativity.

(Image Credits: Pinterest)

The House of Versace and Donatella’s muse for the night, Angelina Jolie, did not know that the Atelier Versace black ball gown would become an overnight sensation. Featuring an asymmetrical strapless show, a velvet chic silhouette, and a bold high-thigh slit, the dress made Angelina Jolie gain 14,000 followers overnight and is an iconic show in the fashion lookbook.

(Image Credits: Pinterest)

Blake Lively made heads spin and turn at the 2022 Met Gala red carpet with her customised Atelier Versace gown, celebrating her love and adoration for New York City. The dress featured a shimmering copper tulle column with beautiful crystals and metallic embellishments that transformed into a big blue-green train, symbolising the Statue of Liberty’s patina verdigris evolution. The stunning celestial map motif was inspired by Grand Central Station’s zodiac-themed ceiling, whereas the reversible gloves completed the artistic masterpiece and brought the whole look together.
(Image Credits: Pinterest)