Donatella Versace steps down as creative director, ending a historic era in fashion. After taking the reins following the tragic death of her brother, Gianni Versace, in 1997, Donatella transformed the brand into a global powerhouse of luxury and celebrity glamour.
As she transitions into her new role as chief brand ambassador, fashion lovers are reflecting on her unparalleled contributions. From Jennifer Lopez’s unforgettable jungle dress to Angelina Jolie’s viral Oscars moment, Donatella’s influence is undeniable.
Let’s take a look back at some of her most iconic designs that forever changed fashion.
Jennifer Lopez’s Jungle Dress – A Google Search Revolution
At the 2000 Grammy Awards, Jennifer Lopez stunned in a sheer, green Versace jungle dress—a moment so groundbreaking that it led to the creation of Google Image Search.
Lopez later recalled her stylist’s hesitation about wearing a dress that had already been seen, but she trusted her instincts. “I was like, ‘Well, you bought it, and it looks the best, so I’m going to wear it.’ And so I did. And it caused quite a stir.”
Donatella herself admitted the frenzy was unexpected. “The next day, she was all over the place with people talking about her in that dress.”
Angelina Jolie’s Thigh-Slit Dress – A Viral Oscars Moment
At the 2012 Academy Awards, Angelina Jolie’s black strapless Versace gown with a dramatic thigh-high slit became an instant meme.
Jolie later admitted she almost went with a more complicated dress but changed her mind at the last minute. Donatella praised the moment, saying, “The leg went viral. Sometimes you don’t know which dress is the best, but when you see someone wearing it, it can become fantastic.”
Britney Spears’ Butterfly Dress – A Y2K Fashion Symbol
At Versace’s Spring 2003 runway show in Milan, Britney Spears stole the show in the legendary butterfly dress.
Years later, Donatella reflected on the moment, saying, “Britney, you were and will always be magical!”
The dress resurfaced in 2024, when Blake Lively wore it to the premiere of It Ends With Us, proving its timeless appeal.
Taylor Swift’s 2016 Grammys Look – A Bold Color Moment
At the 2016 Grammy Awards, Taylor Swift turned heads in a two-piece Versace ensemble.
Donatella later revealed, “She wanted something young, sexy, and fresh, totally reflecting her character.”
Swift’s love for Versace continued into her Eras Tour, where Donatella praised her stage outfits, saying, “You rule that stage with elegance and power!”
Beyoncé’s ‘Crazy in Love’ Look – An Iconic Music Video Moment
Donatella Versace steps down as creative director, leaving behind iconic moments like Beyoncé’s ‘Crazy in Love’ 2003 Versace looks.
Her stylist, Ty Hunter, shared, “Donatella sent us the whole collection. We wanted to create a whole fashion moment around it.”
In 2021, Zendaya paid tribute to Beyoncé’s Versace look at the BET Awards, to which Donatella responded, “A tough act to follow, but you aced it effortlessly!”
Jennifer Garner’s ‘13 Going on 30’ Mini Dress – A Nostalgic Favorite
The Versace mini dress worn by Jennifer Garner in 13 Going on 30 remains one of the most memorable fashion moments in early 2000s cinema.
The dress reemerged in pop culture when Ariana Grande wore a replica on The Voice, making Garner feel “warm and fuzzy” about its lasting impact.
However, the original dress has since gone missing, adding to its mystery.
A New Chapter for Versace
With Dario Vitale from Miu Miu stepping in as creative director, a fresh era for Versace begins.
Meanwhile, Donatella Versace’s legacy remains unmatched. Her bold, glamorous, and revolutionary designs will continue to shape fashion history.
Source: Yahoo
