Donatella Versace (born May 2, 1955) is an Italian fashion designer, businesswoman, socialite, and model. She is the sister of Gianni Versace, founder of the luxury fashion brand Versace, and worked closely with him to merge Italian luxury with pop culture and celebrity.
After Gianni’s death in 1997, she inherited part of the brand and became its creative director. Currently, she serves as the chief creative officer and is credited with contributing to the supermodel phenomenon of the 1990s.
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Donatella Versace Net Worth
Donatella Versace has a net worth of $400 million. She is the younger sister of Gianni Versace and took control of his Versace brand after his tragic murder in 1997. Donatella has served as CEO, chief creative officer, and artistic director, playing a key role in the sale of Versace to Michael Kors for $2.12 billion in 2018.
In 2019, she purchased Villa Mondadori, a 15,000-square-foot mansion in Meina, Italy, overlooking Lake Maggiore, for approximately 5 million euros.
Early Life
Donatella Versace was born in Reggio di Calabria, Italy, the youngest of four siblings. Her father, Antonio, worked in the family coal business, while her mother, Francesca, was a seamstress before opening her own boutique. Donatella’s sister, Tina, tragically passed away at 12.
Close to her brother Gianni, Donatella was convinced by him to dye her hair blonde at 11, inspired by singer Patty Pravo. In the 1970s, she studied literature and languages in Florence while working weekends with Gianni in Milan.
Career
Donatella Versace was always focused on a career in fashion, stating she never considered anything else. In 1976, she and Santo joined Gianni in Milan. The three traveled to the U.S. in 1977 to promote the upcoming Versace brand. Donatella was a key creative partner and muse for Gianni, with him dedicating the Blonde perfume to her in 1989.
After his death in 1997, she took over Versace. She is known for creating the Versace look and has designed campaigns for Madonna, Beyoncé, and others.
Personal Life
Donatella Versace married American model Paul Beck in 1983, and they had two children: Allegra (1986) and Daniel (1989), before divorcing in 2000.
She later married Manuel Dallori in 2004, but their marriage ended the following year. Donatella was deeply affected by the murder of her brother Gianni in 1997 and struggled with drug addiction in the aftermath. She sought help and entered rehab in 2004.
Is Donatella the CEO of Versace?
After taking a lengthy leave from Gianni Versace SpA, Donatella Versace returned to assume the roles of chief designer and vice president of the board. She also acquired a 20 percent stake in the company, while her daughter, Allegra Versace Beck, inherited 50 percent.
Conclusion
Donatella Versace’s journey in fashion and luxury is a testament to her resilience, creativity, and business acumen. Her net worth reflects not just financial success but also a significant impact on the world of fashion and popular culture.
FAQs about Donatella Versace Net Worth
- What is Donatella Versace’s net worth?
- $400 million.
- How did she amass her fortune?
- Through her career in fashion design, strategic business decisions, and investments like real estate.
- What role did she play in the sale of Versace to Michael Kors?
- She was instrumental in the sale, which valued the company at $2.12 billion.
- What is a notable fashion moment by Donatella Versace?
- The creation of Jennifer Lopez’s dress for the 2000 Grammy Awards.
- What personal challenges has she faced?
- The tragic loss of her brother Gianni and her battle with drug addiction.
