Born in Reggio Calabria, Italy, Donatella Versace was nurtured into the world of fashion by her older brother, Gianni, who founded the Versace label in 1978. While still a language student at the University of Florence, she supervised the creation of advertising campaigns that helped set a powerful, glamorous and sexy tone for the brand – all qualities personified by Donatella herself.

Her talent for the business was readily apparent, and she became increasingly more involved. In 1993, she created the children’s line Versace Young. Later, she was nominated as head designer for Versus, a line for the young and fashion forward.

Gianni’s tragic murder in 1997 forced Donatella to take the creative and promotional reins of the Italian luxury brand, while another brother, Santo, handled the company’s business matters. Today, Donatella is vice president of the board and creative director of the Versace Group.

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Donatella has modified Versace styling in recent years from a bold sexiness to a softer, more sensual look. The Versace name is synonymous with red carpet glamour and recognized as a pioneer in the use of celebrity models. Over the years, the brand has branched out into home furnishings, beauty and even hotels.

Donatella’s own habits have reflected publicity onto the brand, as well. Her reputation for enjoying the jet-setting, partying lifestyle, coupled with her trademark platinum hair, tanned skin and smoking habit has turned her into a global personality.

In 2007, Donatella and her late brother Gianni were inducted into the Rodeo Drive Walk of Style, an award given for contributions to the world of fashion and entertainment. She is also the recipient of the World Fashion Award and the Superstar Award from Fashion Group International.