Donatella Versace unveiled the Fall/Winter 2025-2026 collection at Milan Fashion Week, delivering a show that emphasised the Versace signature aesthetic of confidence, power, and sensuality. With swirling rumors of a potential sale of the fashion house, the runway presentation carried a sense of both nostalgia and defiance, drawing from Gianni Versace’s final collection in Autumn/Winter 1997 before his untimely passing. This historical nod blended seamlessly with contemporary silhouettes, emphasizing structure, opulence, and an unapologetically bold Versace attitude.
The collection showcased a mixture of sharp tailoring, rich fabrics, and dramatic outerwear, designed with the colder months in mind. Quilted coats adorned with animal prints and Versace’s iconic Medusa motifs dominated the runway, layering over structured blazers and ribbed turtlenecks. There was a play on contrasts as satin slip dresses were paired with oversized blazers, while archival print shirts complemented ruched skirts and leather trousers, bringing together classic Versace codes with modern versatility.
One of the standout elements of the show was the introduction of chainmail dresses and shirts, appearing intentionally distressed and patchworked, conveying an air of resilience and rebellion. The look was heightened with spiked accessories, bold gold hardware, and statement headpieces that reinforced the collection’s underlying theme of strength. The interplay between toughness and elegance was further underscored by sharp-shouldered coats, cinched-waist suiting, and luxurious knitwear, all exuding an air of commanding sophistication.
The runway also saw a surprise debut from Romeo Beckham, who walked for Versace, marking a significant moment in his budding modeling career. His presence garnered immediate reactions from his parents, David and Victoria Beckham, who took to social media to express their pride. Additionally, Stray Kids’ Hyunjin, a global ambassador for the brand, made an appearance, cementing Versace’s continued appeal to the next generation of luxury consumers.
Beyond the designs themselves, the collection’s significance extended into speculation about Donatella Versace’s future with the brand. With reports surfacing of a possible sale, the presentation carried an air of reflection on Versace’s enduring legacy. Yet, if anything, the show reinforced Donatella’s ability to command the runway with a collection that felt both deeply rooted in the house’s heritage and undeniably relevant for today’s world. The Versace woman and man, as always, remain symbols of power, confidence, and high glamour.
