WORDS BY JOSEPH FURNESS
Embrace extra. If you’ve been craving something gutsier from your attire, look to Versace, who is bringing back high-impact, brightly coloured and boldly printed fashion back to the mainstream. Donatella knew this day was coming…we’ve finally had the epiphany she’s been patiently waiting for. The devil works hard, but Donatella works harder.
Versace: The Homecoming
The SS18 Tribute collection — commemorating 20 years since Gianni’s passing — was a major homecoming of Versace’s classical style. Donatella paid tribute to her late brother by not only recreating his ostentatious designs for the modern consumer but by also reuniting his renowned band of ‘90s supermodels: Naomi, Cindy, Helena, Claudia and Carla. Add this to an already stellar line-up (featuring the likes of Bella, Gigi and Kendall), and you’ve got yourself the ingredients for one of the most impactful catwalks ever (sure to be in the history books).
Versace: The History
And just like that, we’re back to saturating ourselves in bold baroque prints, clashing tartans and a heck load of colour. Gianni, son of a dressmaker, viewed fashion as art and chose to connote this through statement looks. He merged classic cuts with new techniques and adorned the silhouettes with ostentatious designs (remindful of Italian Frescoes) to create looks to boost confidence in the wearer. Additionally, he chose to symbolise the brand with the head of Medusa, an emblem that communicates Versace’s ability to make people unexplainably fall in love with the brand.
An important factor when considering the success of the Italian brand is its tight-knit relationship with the music industry. Gianni connected his two passions, fashion and music (he was partial to a boogie), like no designer beforehand. His eponymous brand became synonymous with high-profile musicians, as he regularly dressed industry heavyweights such as Michael Jackson, Cher, Madonna and Elton John. Donatella has retained the musical strand of the brand’s DNA since she took over as creative director in the late ‘90s, regularly costuming musicians including Beyonce, J-Lo and Bruno Mars.
Versace: The Future
Most recently, Donatella partnered up with American rapper 2-Chainz to create the Versace Chain Reaction Sneaker — the labels take on the chunky sneaker trend. The sneaker perfectly encapsulates the brand’s latest creative direction under Donatella’s recently refreshed eyes. She is merging the biggest fashion trends and added an exuberant Versace touch to the new season’s key pieces (I’m personally after a baroque puffer).
There’s no denying that Versace is once again leading the way with electrifying elegance. The brand hasn’t felt this exciting since it’s golden age in the early ‘90s, previous to the assassination of Gianni Versace (referring to the real deal, not the FX show). Congratulations Donatella, you once again have our hearts...and our credit cards.
Shop the Look (Womenswear): Versace Pillow Talk Print Silk Shirt Dress, Versace Check Wool Trousers, Versace Medusa Medalion Ribbon Silk Dress, Versace Embellished Tote,
Shop the Look (Menswear): Versace Baroque Print Jacket, Versace Tiger Print Sweatshirt, Versace Burgundy Chain Reaction Sneakers, Versace Blue and White Medusa Print Cotton Short Sleeve T-Shirt
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