Versace recently made headlines with its first runway show since merging with Tapestry, a newly formed luxury group. The partnership brought together iconic brands like Versace, Michael Kors, and Jimmy Choo alongside Coach, Kate Spade, and Stuart Weitzman. In a magnificent show held at the Pirelli HangarBicocca in Milan, Donatella Versace presented her vision for the brand under this new collaboration.
The collection displayed Versace’s signature classical style, but with a twist of softer colors. The runway was dominated by hues of beige, sand, eggshell blue, mat gold, and cream, lending an elegant and refreshing aesthetic. One of the standout elements of the collection was a checkerboard print, featured in silk jackets, shorts, and totes. This pattern was also seen in men’s wear, with coordinated fabrics and colors. Rust brown calfskin suits and wool chiffon mobster blazers added a touch of sophistication to the women’s looks, while posh trapper vests and cargo pants injected a sense of casual elegance.
The collection took a turn with draped crepe cocktails and columns, offering a visual relief with a more subdued color palette. One memorable moment was when Imaan Hammam graced the runway in a stunning red carpet gown. The show also marked the much-anticipated return of Claudia Schiffer, who closed the show in a figure-hugging lime metallic checkerboard cocktail dress, radiating confidence and glamour.
Versace placed special emphasis on footwear this season, showcasing silver flats, sandals, and side-zipped boots with open heels. The brand also highlighted its handbags, unveiling blushing pink evening bags and checkered totes. This focus on accessories is not surprising, considering the success of both Michael Kors and Coach in this category.
Despite the visually stunning show, there are still questions about how an Italian couture house fits within a luxury conglomerate that includes American industrial luggage brand Coach and TV star-driven sportswear house Michael Kors. The long-term potential of the Tapestry partnership remains uncertain. The comparison can be drawn to the short-lived collaborations of the 1960s supergroup Blind Faith and the Galacticos of Real Madrid, who achieved initial success but eventually disbanded.
Donatella Versace’s latest collection showcased her undeniable talent and vision. However, the future success of the Versace and Tapestry partnership is still undetermined. Only time will reveal whether this merger will stand the test of time or follow the path of other short-lived collaborations.
For more information on the Versace Tapestry partnership, check out these links:
– Business of Fashion: Versace is Now Officially Part of Michael Kors
– CNN Style: Michael Kors Completes Versace Acquisition
