It was announced this week that American designer Michael Kors is buying fashion brand Versace for $2.12 billion — but designer Donatella Versace wants fans to know she isn’t going anywhere.
News of the sale made waves in the fashion community on Tuesday, but Donatella, who has been Creative Director since the late 90s, is now reassuring admirers that it doesn’t mean she is exiting the company.
The 63-year-old released an official statement on social media this morning, promising that she’s staying put and the brand won’t change.
Here to stay! Donatella Versace released a statement today reassuring fans that the sale of the Versace brand to Michael Kors doesn’t mean she’s leaving the company
‘Ciao a tutti! You all know how I love the interaction that I have with all of you here,’ she said in the message, which was posted on Twitter and Instagram.
Designer forever: She will be staying on as Creative Director
‘First of all, I wanted to let you know that I am NOT going anywhere, so for those who wanted to get rid of me, well… it ain’t happening!
‘I also wanted to reassure you that Versace will remain ITALIAN, Made in Italy and that it will keep its GLAMOUR, DARING and INCLUSIVE attitude that have made you all love it.
‘This is just the beginning of an exciting, new adventure that I hope you will live together with me!’ she concluded before signing off.
On Instagram, several models liked the post and commented on it, sharing support for Donatella.
‘LOVE YOU QUEEEEEN,’ wrote Gigi Hadid.
‘Love you,’ wrote Karlie Kloss. ‘So excited for you and all that is ahead int his next chapter!’
Love it! Famous fans applauded her, including Karlie Kloss, Gigi Hadid, Yolanda Hadid, Irina Shayk, makeup artist Pat McGrath, and designer Christopher Kane
Next chapter: Lindsay Lohan and Anastasia Beverly Hills commented, too
Hollywood fans: Selma Blair was another star to comment, in addition to Megan Pormer, Caroline Vreeland, and designer Pier Paolo Piccioli
You go, girl! Model Amber Valletta left hearts and stars
‘We never let u go anywhere but red carpets and Maldives,’ wrote Irina Shayk. ‘Love u queen D.’
Changes: It was announced this week that American designer Michael Kors is buying fashion brand Versace for $2.12 billion
She also received support from a huge number of other celebrities, including Yolanda Hadid, makeup artist Pat McGrath, designer Christopher Kane, Lindsay Lohan, makeup brand Anastasia Beverly Hills, Selma Blair, Amber Valetta, Megan Pormer, Caroline Vreeland, and designer Pier Paolo Piccioli.
With the announcement of the deal earlier this week, it was also revealed that the Michael Kors company will change its name to Capri Holdings, inspired by the ‘iconic, glamorous and luxury’ Italian island, which has long been used as favorite summer getaway for A-listers like Taylor Swift, Cara Delevingne, and Kate Upton.
‘The acquisition of Versace is an important milestone for our group,’ Michael Kors CEO and chairman John Idol said in a statement.
Donatella added: ‘It has been more than 20 years since I took over the company along with my brother Santo and daughter Allegra.
Family affair: Versace was started by Donatella’s brother Gianni in 1978 (pictured 1996)
‘I am proud that Versace remains very strong in both fashion and modern culture. Versace is not only synonymous with its iconic and unmistakable style, but with being inclusive and embracing of diversity, as well as empowering people to express themselves.’
Donatella took over Versace after her brother, founder of the line, was murdered in 1997. Gianni founded the company in Milan in 1978.
‘We believe that being part of this group is essential to Versace’s long-term success. My passion has never been stronger,’ Donatella said of the purchase.
The Versace family, which currently owns 80 per cent of the fashion house via a holding company called Givi, will receive 150 million euros of the purchase price in Capri shares.