Versace Spring-Summer 2021: welcome to Versacepolis

Over eighty percent of the ocean is completely unmapped and unexplored. A far greater percentage of the moon’s surfaces have been studied and recorded than the ocean floor has. The deep blue waters remain a mystery. To present Sprint/Summer 2021 collection Donatella Versace transports us underwater to Versacepolis. As the world resiliently adapts to the new normal, this sub-surface show setting is an opportunity for the Versace community to indulge in a little fantasy and dive headfirst into a dreamscape. Is dreaming escapism? Is it ignoring the truth of our current reality? Perhaps the dream is fictional, but the process of dreaming is both human and undeniably real. Versacepolis is where mythology meets the reality of the unknown. The water can be rough, but it can also cleanse, soothe and refresh.

“I wanted to create something disruptive, something that could be in tune with what has changed inside all of us. To me that meant dreaming of a new world. A world made of popping colors and fantastic creatures and a world in which we can all coexist peacefully. This collection has an upbeat soul and is optimistic, dreamy, positive… These are clothes that bring you joy.”– stated Donatella Versace.

The collection draws inspiration from the natural world and the idea of being in tune with the elements. The beauty of the wilderness takes us underwater, with Onda hemlines inspired by waves and frothy ruffles on dresses and gowns that move like the tides. The brand’s iconic Trésor de la Mer print – depicting sea creatures – is revitalized in vibrant shades on pieces for both men and women. Plisse details showcase the brand’s craftsmanship: the Trésor print has been blown up largescale so that even when the fabric is intricately pleated, it still sits picture perfectly.

The aquatic theme flows forward with a selection of boardroom-to-beach looks. Surf-style rash guards are bold and graphic. They channel youth spirit and athleticism, connecting us back to summertime and leisure. The pieces are styled with louche tailoring for ensembles that play on the brand’s high-low expression and irony. Menswear looks bring a sense of ease: the collars are undone; the shirts are open and there’s a confident relaxedness. Jerseys and piquet fabric made from organic cotton bring a sustainable grounding to the collection. Organic fibers and recycled polyester and polyamide feature in a range of beachwear styles. This is part of our evolving goal to become a more environmentally conscious brand.

La Medusa handbag line launches this season, named after the brand’s iconic signature. The face of the Medusa adorns the doors of Via Gesù – Versace’s original headquarters – and she’s sat at the heart of the brand since the very beginning. La Medusa is a sophisticated yet comfortable handbag style for Versace, it’s made from supple leather that creates a slouchy silhouette and brings a young, fresh attitude. The styles come in a range of playful pop colors but are all lined in lilac. Optional Greca shoulder straps in a kaleidoscope of shades up the statement factor of this fun new design.

This whole collection is disruptive in its vibrancy. The color palette is exuberant. The prints are zesty and bold. There’s skin on show in an ode to signature Versace sensuality. The nature, athleticism, seduction and fantasy combine in a melting pot of life’s joys. At the center of this collection is an empowered attitude that looks to the future with optimism and hope.