Donatella Versace’s Best Celebrity Red Carpet Moments

Donatella Versace is stepping down as Chief Creative Officer of Versace. The woman who has helmed the house for nearly three decades, carrying on Gianni’s legacy while carving out her own iconic path, will now be Chief Brand Ambassador, focusing on philanthropy and global brand advocacy. As we bid farewell to this chapter of Versace history, we must also roll out the (gold-studded, Medusa-embellished) carpet for Dario Vitale, formerly of Miu Miu, who will take over as Chief Creative Officer starting April 1.

Donatella Versace isn’t just a designer. She’s a cultural institution. A trailblazer. A legend. Her vision has kept Versace at the forefront of Italian luxury, never compromising on the brand’s DNA of fearless glamour, sharp tailoring, and body-confidence-maximalism. If it wasn’t sexy, powerful, and a little dangerous, was it even Versace?

Her ability to honour Gianni’s legacy while ensuring Versace remained relevant to every generation is nothing short of remarkable. She didn’t just keep the brand afloat—she made it thrive. She brought Versace into the 21st century, embracing inclusivity, pushing boundaries, and ensuring that every collection screamed confidence, strength, and opulence. Whether on the runway or the red carpet, Donatella’s Versace was always about making a statement.

The Red Carpet Reign

Speaking of statements, let’s talk about the unforgettable Versace red carpet moments Donatella gave us. If ever there was proof of her cultural impact, it’s in the way celebrities trusted Versace to create some of the most jaw-dropping, conversation-starting, history-making looks of all time.

Obviously, we have to start with that Jennifer Lopez 2000 Grammys dress—the dress that literally gave birth to Google Images. It was so major that years later, Donatella and J.Lo recreated the magic for the Spring 2020 runway, reminding us why it’s one of the most iconic fashion moments ever.

Then there’s Kate Hudson’s blush Versace perfection at the 2003 Oscars, and Penelope Cruz’s ethereal 2007 Oscar gown.

And let’s not forget Gisele Bündchen at the 2008 Met Gala in a gown so stunning it still lives rent-free in my head, even with those creases.

Gwyneth Paltrow brought full Hollywood glamour to the 2010 CMA Awards in that ombré cut-out Versace gown. I don’t think she’s ever worn anything as major since, because frankly, no one does it better than Donatella.

January Jones’ fringed red Versace moment at the 2011 Emmys? Jaw-dropping.

Nicki Minaj practically worshipped at the House of Versace when she arrived at the 2012 Grammys in a red hooded ensemble, making it clear that even rap royalty bows to the Medusa.

Emma Stone in that yellow Atelier Versace gown at the 2014 Amazing Spider-Man 2 world premiere? Still one of her best looks ever.

Michelle Obama shutting down the 2016 state dinner in rose-gold Atelier Versace? I’m still typing from the afterlife.

Amal Clooney in that lilac dream at the 2017 Suburbicon Venice Film Festival premiere? A masterpiece.

Met Gala moments? Zendaya’s Joan of Arc-inspired chain-link masterpiece in 2018 …

… as was Lil Nas X’s gold robot suit in 2021.

Margot Robbie’s Barbie press tour would not have been complete without a little Versace magic.

The Versace Ambassador

Anne Hathaway has been a worthy ambassador for the house, consistently serving looks that embody Versace’s sleek, ultra-glamorous aesthetic. My earliest memory of her in the brand was at the Rachel Getting Married premiere, but my absolute favourites are a toss-up between the rose-gold Atelier Versace dress she wore during her 2021 Locked Down press tour and the embellished Atelier Versace gown for the 2023 Bulgari Mediterranea High Jewelry Event.

The Met Gala Queen

Blake Lively’s Met Gala history with Versace? Flawless. Unmatched. The 2022 Lady Liberty gown? We are still recovering.

Thanks to Donatella, Blake is regarded as Met Gala royalty—because when she wore Versace, she and the brand never missed and were always on theme.

The Iconic Collaboration: Angelina Jolie x Versace

And now, let’s talk Angelina Jolie. Donatella’s work with Angelina changed my life. I wish I was kidding.

• The leather Versace dress worn to the 2005 Mr. & Mrs. Smith premiere? A jaw-dropping moment.
• The sparkling green 2011 Golden Globes Atelier Versace gown? Goosebumps, and still my favourite Jolie x Versace look of all time.

• The 2012 Golden Globes Atelier Versace gown? Iconic. Brought a tear to my eye.
• The 2012 Oscars will always be iconic because that leg pop.

• The 2014 Maleficent world premiere? Undeniable excellence.
• And the 2021 Atelier Versace silver mesh goddess moment from the ‘Eternals’ Rome Film Festival premiere.

A Moment in Fashion History

For me, one of the most emotional Versace moments was the closing of the Spring 2018 show to celebrate the 20th anniversary of Gianni Versace’s death. Supermodels draped in gold mesh, singing Freedom by George Michael. A full-circle moment that paid tribute to Gianni, to the supermodel era, and to everything Versace has stood for. It was the fashion moment that reminded me why I fell in love with fashion in the first place.

Thank You, Donatella

Donatella, you have given us so much—beyond fashion, beyond trends, beyond glamour. You have given us culture-defining moments, art, and a legacy that will inspire generations. While you may be stepping into a different role, your impact on Versace and on fashion will never be forgotten.

So, from the bottom of my fashion-loving heart—thank you, Donatella. For the looks, for the memories, for the magic.

Wishing you all the best in your next chapter.

With deep appreciation,

Catherine aka Fashion Critic xxx

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