Versace
Prada Group · Italy
Versace is an Italian luxury house founded in Milan in 1978 by Gianni Versace and known for its Medusa logo and bold, glamorous style. After seven years under Capri Holdings it became part of the Prada Group in December 2025, and Pieter Mulier has been its chief creative officer since July 2026.
| Founded | 1978, Milan |
|---|---|
| Founder | Gianni Versace |
| Owner | Prada Group (since December 2025) |
| Headquarters | Milan, Italy |
| Chief creative officer | Pieter Mulier (since July 2026) |
| Previous owner | Capri Holdings (2018 to 2025) |
| Website | versace.com |
What is Versace?
Versace is a Milan-based luxury brand covering ready-to-wear, haute couture under the Atelier Versace name, leather goods, footwear, accessories, fragrance and interiors. The Prada Group describes it as a brand built on freedom and self-expression with strong ties to pop culture. Its Medusa logo draws on Greek mythology and the founder's Calabrian roots.
History
Gianni Versace founded the house in 1978, initially as Gianni Versace Donna, and the first fragrance followed in 1981. After his death in 1997 his sister Donatella Versace led design for 28 years before handing over creative leadership in 2025 and becoming chief brand ambassador. Michael Kors, later Capri Holdings, bought the company in December 2018. In April 2025 the Prada Group agreed to acquire Versace for €1.25 billion, and the transaction completed in December 2025.
Products and positioning
Versace is positioned at the high end of the luxury market with a maximalist, body-conscious aesthetic. Dario Vitale was chief creative officer for most of 2025, and Belgian designer Pieter Mulier, formerly of Alaïa, took over the role on 1 July 2026.
- Ready-to-wear and Atelier Versace couture
- Leather goods, shoes and accessories
- Eyewear licensed to Luxottica since 2003
- Versace Home furniture under licence since 2020
Business model and distribution
Versace combines directly operated boutiques and e-commerce with wholesale and an extensive licensing network covering eyewear, fragrance, home and hospitality, including Palazzo Versace hotels. Its diffusion line Versace Jeans Couture has been produced under licence by Swinger International, and has been reported as set to be phased out under Prada ownership. Integration into the Prada Group gives the brand access to the group's manufacturing and retail infrastructure in Italy.
Why it matters
The sale of Versace to the Prada Group was one of the most significant luxury deals of 2025 and created Italy's largest fashion group. How Prada repositions the brand, its licences and its distribution will be a key test of whether Italian ownership can restore a heritage house after a period of weaker performance under an American parent.
Frequently asked questions
Who owns Versace?
Versace has been owned by the Prada Group since December 2025, when the Italian group completed its purchase of the brand from Capri Holdings. The deal was announced in April 2025 at a value of €1.25 billion.
Who is the designer of Versace?
Pieter Mulier has been chief creative officer of Versace since 1 July 2026. Donatella Versace led design from 1997 to 2025 and is now the brand's chief brand ambassador.