Renowned for his bold designs, flamboyant style, and unparalleled creativity, Versace revolutionized the industry, leaving an indelible mark on the world of haute couture that continues to resonate to this day.

At the heart of Versace’s aesthetic was a celebration of the human form, a reverence for the female body that manifested itself in his bold cuts, sensual silhouettes, and provocative designs. From the iconic “safety pin” dress worn by Elizabeth Hurley to the bondage-inspired ensembles that graced the catwalks, Versace’s creations were a testament to his unapologetic embrace of sensuality and desire, challenging conventions and redefining the concept of femininity in the process.

The Versace brand was also a reflection of Gianni’s broader philosophy, one that embraced diversity, inclusivity, and the democratization of fashion. Rejecting the elitism of traditional couture, Versace sought to make his designs accessible to a wider audience through ready-to-wear collections and licensing agreements, bringing high fashion to the masses in a way that had never been done before.

But beyond his groundbreaking designs and lavish runway shows, Versace played a pivotal role in shaping the careers of some of the most iconic supermodels of all time. From Cindy Crawford to Naomi Campbell, Versace’s keen eye for talent and bold vision catapulted these models to international stardom, forever changing the landscape of the fashion industry.

Gianni Versace wasn’t just a designer; he was a master storyteller. With his opulent creations and extravagant runway spectacles, Versace didn’t just showcase clothes; he created an entire universe where beauty reigned supreme. And at the centre of this universe were the models—his muses—who brought his visions to life with their grace, charm, and undeniable presence.

Versace had an uncanny knack for spotting raw talent and transforming it into something extraordinary. He didn’t just cast models for his shows; he discovered stars. Take, for example, Cindy Crawford, whose career skyrocketed after Versace handpicked her to walk in his runway shows. With her sultry looks and magnetic personality, Crawford became one of the most sought-after models of the 1990s, gracing countless magazine covers and becoming a household name in the process.

But Crawford was just the beginning. Versace’s shows were a veritable who’s who of supermodels, featuring the likes of Naomi Campbell, Linda Evangelista, and Christy Turlington, among others. These women weren’t just models; they were legends in the making, and Versace played a crucial role in shaping their careers.

What set Versace apart was his ability to see beyond the surface and tap into the essence of each model’s personality. He didn’t just cast models based on their looks; he cast them based on their charisma, their confidence, and their ability to command attention. Whether strutting down the runway in one of his iconic silk dresses or lounging poolside in a daring swimsuit, Versace’s models exuded a sense of power and allure that captivated audiences around the world.

Versace’s influence extended far beyond the runway. With his boundary-pushing designs and glamorous aesthetic, he helped redefine the standards of beauty in the fashion industry, paving the way for a new generation of models who embraced diversity, individuality, and self-expression. And while Versace may no longer be with us, his legacy lives on in the models he championed, who continue to inspire and empower us with their grace, their elegance, and their unwavering confidence.

Giulia Avallone