Donatella Versace is one of the most iconic fashion designers and moguls in the industry, carrying forward the legacy of her late brother Gianni Versace, founder of the luxury fashion house Versace. After Gianni’s tragic murder in 1997, Donatella inherited partial ownership of the company and quickly stepped into the role of creative head. Over the decades, she has built a formidable reputation as a designer, businesswoman, and style icon, dressing numerous celebrities and redefining modern fashion with her bold vision.

Born in 1955 in Reggio di Calabria, Italy, Donatella grew up surrounded by fashion—her mother was a dressmaker and her brother Gianni had an exceptional eye for design. Encouraged by Gianni from a young age, Donatella’s signature platinum blonde hair became a hallmark of her elegant and striking image. Throughout the 1970s, she balanced education in literature and languages with weekend commutes to Milan to assist Gianni, who saw her as both muse and collaborator. Their close sibling bond shaped much of the early success of the Versace brand, including the creation of the Versus label dedicated to her.

Gianni’s sudden death was a devastating blow, but Donatella rose to the challenge, leading a spectacular couture show just days after his passing and eventually becoming the face of the company. Despite early struggles, she redefined the brand with a fresh, feminist perspective and continued to expand its influence in pop culture. Donatella’s designs have graced the likes of Madonna, Lady Gaga, Beyoncé, and Jennifer Lopez—whose iconic “jungle dress” remains one of the most famous red carpet moments in fashion history.

Beyond clothing, Donatella has also made her mark in hospitality, designing Palazzo Versace hotels in Australia and Dubai, and has become a fixture in popular culture, inspiring portrayals in TV and film and even a song by Lady Gaga. In 2018, she sold Versace to Capri Holdings but remains deeply involved, confident the move would help the brand grow faster. Throughout it all, Donatella has embraced strength and individuality, often advising her younger self to “be strong, stay true, and don’t try to be Gianni.”

Donatella’s daughter, Allegra Versace Beck, has also played a key role in the family legacy. Born in 1986, Allegra has worked as a director at Versace since 2011, balancing her own creative pursuits with a desire to keep the brand thriving. Although different in temperament—Donatella being bold and impetuous, Allegra more reflective and private—the mother-daughter duo share a deep bond and commitment to their family’s fashion empire. Together, they continue to shape the future of Versace while honoring its storied past.