Over recent months, the industry has been ablaze with rumors that Donatella Versace was to leave Versace as creative director. Today, the news became a reality. After almost three whole decades at the helm of the iconic Italian fashion house, the equally as iconic Italian designer is leaving. Donatella became creative director of the iconic Italian label (founded in 1978), following the untimely passing of her brother Gianni Versace in 1997. Over the past 27 years, Donatella has ultimately been responsible for countless cultural moments that have shaped the fashion world we know today. Donatella’s final Versace collection was ultimately for the Fall 2025 season, presented mere weeks ago during Milan Fashion Week. Along with the announcement of Donatella’s departure, Versace named Dario Vitale as Versace chief creative officer, effective April 1.

Donatella Versace Set to Depart Versace as Creative Director View this post on Instagram

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Read below the reactions of theFashionSpot’s forum members:

“Her last show was so mid and anti-climatic.” [fashionsavvvvvy]

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“Sad her last show wasn’t as big as she deserves.” [thiago]

“Sad. But necessary.” [GoldenPetals]

“This made me sad (she served many iconic moments!). I hope she is okay, and that the new director does something good, which I don’t think will happen.” [DK92]

“The end of an era. I remember watching her shows in the lates 90s and early to mid 00s and loving it. The sexiness and glamour that the brand had under her leadership was unmatched. The brand definitely struggled after the recession and the designs just weren’t there. I’ll miss the idea of Donatella at the brand.” [Salvatore]

“She should have a proper last show. Greatest hits or whatnot. She deserves that.” [TaylorBinque]

“Always been a Donatella fan, and it’s certainly a sad moment to see her leave Versace as creative director. It’s almost unfathomable to imagine the brand without Donatella at the helm. She IS Versace. Nevertheless, I’m interested to see what Dario Vitale will do.” [vogue28]

Share your own thoughts on the news of Donatella leaving Versace and join the conversation, here.