Versace opens Milan show amid sale buzz

In the bustling fashion capital of Milan, Donatella Versace presented a striking collection during Milan Fashion Week, showcasing the enduring charm of the iconic brand. The runway event took place against the backdrop of whispers regarding a potential sale of the Versace fashion house.

As the co-ed Fall-Winter 2025-26 show concluded, Versace made a silent appearance, acknowledging the applause from the audience. Despite the quiet rumors of other Italian fashion entities expressing interest in acquiring the brand, Versace remained tight-lipped about any possible transactions concerning the fashion empire founded in 1978 by her brother, the legendary Gianni Versace.

The runway, set within a vast tram depot in Milan, provided an unorthodox yet avant-garde stage for the collection. Conscious of the chilly environment, guests, including celebrities like Ice Spice, were offered heated seating and warm blankets. The initial outfits featured thick quilted puffers in diverse animal and Medusa prints, fashioned into wraps, coiled mini-skirts, and even opulent gowns. Models, donning stiletto heels, exhibited an energetic and vigorous walk, possibly to counter the brisk surroundings or to allure potential investors.

The heart of Versace’s collection resonated with its signature allure of sex appeal. Satin teddies were artfully paired with business blazers or relaxed ribbed turtlenecks, merging sensual charm with professional attire. Silken blouses bearing archival prints made a bold statement when matched with a black ruched skirt for women or leather trousers for men, all crowned with striking studded black gloves.

Versace’s designs incorporated playful yet structured elements like corsets styled akin to ice cream cones, vividly contrasting against dark ensembles, and accompanied by flared skirts and stout boots or chic business trousers and pumps, ideal for the modern businesswoman.

In a powerful narrative of strength and resilience, the collection featured chainmail dresses and shirts for both sexes, crafted to appear rugged yet resilient with intricate patchworks of metal and crystal mesh. Paired with sharp, spiked caps secured under the chin, these outfits embodied a warrior-like ferocity.

The overarching theme of Versace’s Milan showcase was one of defiance and endurance. The standout pieces of the week embodied authority and elegance, particularly evident in a minimalist yet impactful ensemble—a straight black trouser paired with a daring backless bodysuit, eloquently accessorized with a silver belt and chunky bracelets, embodying a spirit of empowered femininity.