Dario Vitale Exits Versace
Only days after Prada Group officially closed its acquisition of Versace, the creative landscape at the Milanese house has shifted: Dario Vitale has exited the brand.
Versace confirmed his departure, though the timing and future creative direction remain undisclosed. Vitale, appointed creative director in March and widely respected for his hands-on presence in the studio, had not been seen at headquarters in recent days, fueling speculation about his status.
The abrupt change comes despite expectations that Vitale would remain at the helm through February to present his fall collection, a project he was reportedly developing intensely with his team. Market sources note that Vitale—who previously served as design director for ready-to-wear at Miu Miu—had been seeking opportunities outside Prada Group, making this sudden convergence of events particularly pointed.
Prada executives had emphasized that Vitale’s arrival at Versace was unrelated to the acquisition, yet the rapid pace of organizational shifts suggests a strategic tightening at the top. Industry observers say Prada Group rarely entertains senior departures lightly, particularly among seasoned talent.
For now, Emmanuel Gintzburger remains CEO of Versace, while Lorenzo Bertelli—Prada Group’s head of CSR and the son of Patrizio Bertelli and Miuccia Prada—is expected to assume the role of executive chairman.
Vitale made his runway debut for Versace in September, delivering a bold, color-saturated collection that resonated with retailers and paid direct homage to Gianni Versace’s legacy. His exit marks an early and significant reset as Versace transitions into its next chapter under Prada Group’s ownership.
