Dario Vitale's Versace blends vintage references with street style
From Prince to Ennio Morricone and Eurythmics to Janet Jackson_ the soundtrack for the presentation of the upcoming spring/summer 26 collection designed by Dario Vitale for Versace reveals that the pieces are neither monotonous nor predictable. The designer_ formerly the creative director of Miu Miu_ has not fallen into the trap of evoking the history of the brand_ founded by Gianni Versace_ in every look. A few references are scattered throughout. However_ the collection is infused with new vitality_ evident in designs that nod to street style_ such as striped denim pieces_ patched leather_ and brightly coloured prints. The result is a collection that is free_ contemporary_ and uninhibited.
The colour palette is dominated by black_ alternating with intense reds and touches of gold. Bags are small and jewel-like_ while belts are large. Footwear consists of high_ slender sandals.
The collection was presented last Friday during a show at the Pinacoteca Ambrosiana. The venue was transformed into a set resembling a residence. The presentation was accompanied by the publication of a romantic letter written by Vitale. Hyunjin_ the Korean rapper chosen as Versace's global brand ambassador_ was present at the show. The house is now owned by the Prada Group.
My beloved_ I write to you with urgency and secrecy_ as if the words themselves could transport us to a different life. "My love has made me selfish. I cannot exist without you. I have forgotten everything except the desire to see you again... You have completely absorbed me_" are some excerpts from the letter. "To write is already to risk too much_ yet I cannot help it. Words are useless_ but in your absence I have nothing else. This house is elegant_ respectable_ bourgeois in its quiet disguise_ and yet something is wrong. Or perhaps I have had enough of simple elegance_ just as the demands of respectability seem absurd to me_" Vitale continues in the letter.
"So_ let this not be a eulogy_ but an invitation. Hurry_ come soon. The curtains are drawn_ the wine is cold: I have followed the script this far_ but I hate monologues. Wear something reckless_ as if you were mocking propriety. Stay or go as you wish. You have already left your mark_" the letter concludes.
