Gianni Versace - (1946 - 1997)

Born in Reggio Calabria in Southern Italy, Gianni Versace became one of the most colorful, and talented designers in the late 20th century. Versace launched his first clothing line in Milan, Italy, in 1978. After this along with his sister's and brother's talents they created the Versace fashion empire.

Gianni Versace

Growing up Versace watched his mother, who was a dressmaker, working on designs for her boutique. After graduating from high-school he spent some time wit his mom at her shop, until moving into Milan in 1972, where he worked in many Italian workshops. In 1978 Versace established his own company, Gianni Versace Spa, and launched his own ready-to-wear show that same year.

Evening ensemble, bodice, skirt and belt, Autumn-Winter 1990/91, Versace, black net embroidered with multicoloured silks, sequins and diamantés, satin, duchesse satin and faille printed with various black and white geometric patterns

Versace's glamorous styles, and siren dresses that became his trademark is what made him famous. He would use innovative materials such as aluminum mesh. As well he would cutting-edge techniques like "neo-couture" laser technology which is used to fuse leather and rubber together. His first couture line launched in 1989, and added another two clothing lines in the 90's (Versus and Instante).

Mini evening dress, Spring/Summer 1996, Versace, leather, synthetic tulle, lace, beads & sequins

His most renowned creation was a black gown held together at the sides by gold safety pins; used by Elizabeth Hurley at a film premiere in 1994; the gown assisted to make the actress a celebrity. Versace designed solid connections with a variety of celebrities and supermodels, including Elton John, Madonna and Naomi Campbell. As Anna Wintour informed The New York Times, Versace "was the very first to recognize the worth of a star in the front row, and the worth of the supermodel, and put fashion on a worldwide media system." He was likewise among the leading designers that showed the power of bringing the fashion and music world together.

Evening gown worn by Elizabeth Hurley, Spring-Summer 1994, Versace, black viscose and acetate with kilt pin embellishments

Versace grew his fashion empire until his death on July 15th, 1997. He was murdered at 50 years old by a 27-year-old spree killer, Andrew Cunanan. The tragedy occurred outside of Versace's beach home in Miami. Of course his brand survived through his longtime partner Antonio D'Amico. The Versace brand continues to be world renowned, luxury brand.

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