Versace, Gianni, << vair SAH cheh, ZHAHN nee >> (1946-1997), was an Italian fashion designer. He was known for original and showy clothing made out of such unusual materials as metal and rubber. He was one of the first designers to become a major celebrity.
Versace was born Dec. 2, 1946, in Reggio di Calabria in southern Italy. His mother was a dressmaker, and Versace worked in her dress shop. He eventually began designing clothing to be sold there. By the time he was 25, he was working for a design house (business that creates high fashion) in Milan. Versace launched his first collection under his own name in 1978. From early on, the house of Versace was a family affair. Versace’s elder brother Santo managed the business side of the design firm. Younger sister Donatella became a designer for the firm.
Versace became famous for designing body-conscious clothing. Such clothing tends to be tight fitting. Versace is credited with starting the trend toward the use of highly paid supermodels in fashion shows. Such supermodels as Naomi Campbell of the United Kingdom and Claudia Schiffer of Germany appeared in his designs in elaborate fashion shows.
Versace designed clothing for a number of famous people, including the singers Madonna and Elton John, as well as Diana, Princess of Wales. Versace was also praised for costumes he created for ballets and operas.
Versace was murdered in Miami on July 15, 1997. He was an apparently random victim of a killing rampage by a man named Andrew Cunanan. The Versace brand is continued by Gianni’s family.
