Gianni Versace was one of the most influential and innovative fashion designers of the 20th century. He was born on December 2, 1946 in Reggio Calabria. His mother Francesca was a dressmaker. Even as a child he showed a great interest in fashion and art.
After graduating from school, he studied architecture and worked in his mother’s fashion store. There he learned the basics of tailoring and developed his own style, inspired by Greek and Roman mythology, pop culture and glamour.
In 1972 he moved to Milan, the center of the Italian fashion industry, and began working as a freelance designer for various labels. He quickly made a name for himself with his extravagant and provocative creations, often embellished with leather, metal, lace and silk.
In 1978 he founded his own fashion house Versace, which soon became a global phenomenon. He designed collections for women, men and children, as well as accessories, perfumes, jewelry and home textiles. He also collaborated with famous photographers, artists, musicians and actors to promote and inspire his fashion. Among his most famous clients were Madonna, Elton John, Princess Diana, Naomi Campbell and Cindy Crawford.
Gianni Versace was not only a brilliant designer, but also a businessman who built his empire with the help of his family. His sister Donatella was his muse and his right hand, responsible for the creative direction of the women’s collections. His brother Santo was the CEO of the company and took care of the financial and administrative aspects.
Gianni Versace was shot dead on July 15, 1997 outside his Miami Beach home by a serial killer named Andrew Cunanan. His death shocked the world and left a huge void in the fashion world. His family carried on his legacy and made Versace one of the most successful and prestigious fashion houses in the world.
Gianni Versace was more than a fashion designer. He was a visionary, an artist, a pioneer and an icon. He revolutionized fashion with his combination of elegance and extravagance, of tradition and innovation, of beauty and provocation. He created a fashion that was not only clothing, but also an expression of personality, culture and passion.
