Dario Vitale exits the house just days after Prada Group finalizes its acquisition, signaling an imminent shift in creative leadership
Versace is entering a rapid period of change. Just two days after the Prada Group officially closed its acquisition of the Milan house, Dario Vitale has departed his role as chief creative officer. Versace confirmed the exit, though timing and succession plans remain undisclosed.
Vitale had been expected to continue at least through February, when he was slated to present his next collection, and had reportedly been working at full pace in Milan in recent weeks. His absence over the past few days fueled speculation that the house’s creative direction could shift sooner than anticipated. The departure comes at a sensitive moment, as the Prada Group begins integrating Versace following its €1.25 billion purchase from Capri Holdings.
While Vitale previously served as ready-to-wear design director at Miu Miu, sources suggest the reunion under Prada’s umbrella did not align with his longer-term ambitions. Observers also note that the Prada Group has historically held firm expectations around loyalty from senior creative talent. For now, Versace CEO Emmanuel Gintzburger remains in place, while Lorenzo Bertelli — the Prada Group’s head of CSR and son of Miuccia Prada and Patrizio Bertelli — is expected to assume the role of executive chairman.
Vitale’s departure adds a new layer to the brand’s ongoing evolution. Donatella Versace stepped down from creative leadership earlier this year, transitioning into a chief brand ambassador role after nearly three decades at the helm. Vitale’s debut collection in September was met with strong retailer support for its vivid reinterpretation of Gianni Versace’s codes, leaving open the question of how the house will define its next design era under new ownership.
