The Italian fashion brand founded by Gianni Versace in 1978 was Versace. The company launched under the name Gianni Versace Donna, presenting its first collection in Milan and opening its first boutique on Via della Spiga.
Gianni Versace was born in Reggio Calabria and learned about clothing through his mother’s tailoring business. After designing for other Italian labels, he moved toward building a house under his own name. His designs became known for bold color, strong silhouettes, provocative glamour, vivid prints, and references to classical Greek imagery.
The brand’s Medusa emblem reflects Versace’s interest in Greek mythology and the artistic heritage of southern Italy. Versace later expanded beyond clothing into accessories, jewelry, home furnishings, fragrances, and haute couture through Atelier Versace. Its visibility grew through celebrity dressing, including the famous black dress worn by Elizabeth Hurley in 1994.
After Gianni Versace’s murder in 1997, his sister Donatella became creative director and his brother Santo helped lead the business. Versace is distinct from Armani, Missoni, and Moschino, although all are major Italian fashion names.