Versace

Gianni Versace (1946-1997) is one of the greatest Italian fashion designers. His style and creations inspired me in my college thesis when I presented a mini fashion show for my finals. I believe that Gianni Versace was ahead of his time. I really like how he uses leather and luxe fabrics, his colors and patterns and the beadings are just cool and extravagant.

Born in Reggio Calabria, he learned about tailoring at an early age from his mother who is a tailor/dressmaker. In 1972 he went to Milan to do freelance work for major Italian labels Complice, Callaghan and Genny. In 1978 he presented his first women's and men's collection and within the same year his first boutique opened. From then on the Versace brand became one of the major name in fashion whose clients include A-list celebrities and the rich jet-set.

His tragic death in 1997 did not stop the House of Versace to progress. His younger sister Donatella Versace took the reins of the company as its creative director and vice-president and continued the legacy of her brother. The Versace style is all about allure and power dressing. The fashion house designs for men and women's wear. Labels: Atelier Versace and Versus. Today the Versace Group even expanded into the hotel business which includes Palazzo Versace luxury hotels.

Photo Credit: Versace Collection window display, NYC 2010
Photographer: Viridia
Photo Link: http://www.flickr.com/search/?q=versace&w=26154094%40N03