Donatella Versace is leaving the creative direction of the brand. The designer leaving Miu Miu’s style office will come in her place. Who is Dario Vitale, the new Chief Creative Officer of Versace

Dario Vitale is the new creative director of Versace. Or rather, the new Chief Creative Officer. WWD writes that the role will be effective from April 1st. After the announcement of his exit from Miu Miu in recent months, there was much talk about his future: now it is official that his new role is in the Versace fashion house.

Dario Vitale is one of those creatives who work behind the scenes, letting their creations do the talking. He is mysterious and reserved, and his talent does not need the spotlight to be noticed. For years, he has been one of the most influential minds behind Miu Miu’s success, helping to define a sophisticated and irreverent aesthetic that has won over the public and critics.

Originally from the Amalfi Coast, Dario Vitale’s journey in fashion began in Milan, where he moved to study and refine his taste. He had always preferred to work behind the scenes, maintaining a low profile. His career took off when he joined the style office of the Prada group, one of the most prestigious Maisons in the fashion system. Here, he grew up in the shadow of Miuccia Prada, learning the refined art of combining minimalism, irony and experimentation.

The big turning point came in the fall of 2023: he was appointed Design Director of Miu Miu in place of Fabio Zambernardi, Miuccia Prada’s historic right-hand man and Vitale’s mentor. He brought a new creative energy to the brand in this role, perfectly balancing tradition with a young and rebellious aesthetic. Thus making the brand increasingly recognizable and desired. During his management, Miu Miu experienced unprecedented success: in 2023, sales grew by 58%, with a further leap of 97% in the first nine months of 2024, a success that brought the brand to the top of the Lyst ranking among the most sought-after and loved brands in the third quarter of 2024. However, in January 2025, Vitale left the company, leaving the baton to Francesca Nicoletti, who is still head of the brand’s style office. The reason? New projects are on the horizon.

Vitale’s love for Milan, where he studied and now lives, is evident in his work. He loves the colour green, the Japanese screens of his house in Porta Romana, checkered or coloured Vans and cycling.

Following his appointment, Dario Vitale expressed his commitment to Versace’s future. He said: “I am honoured to join Versace as Chief Creative Officer and to become part of this special and powerful fashion house created by Gianni and Donatella. Versace has a unique heritage that has spanned the decades and shaped the history of fashion”. He added: “My most sincere thanks go to Donatella for her trust in me and her tireless dedication to the extraordinary brand that is Versace today. It is a privilege to contribute to its future growth and global impact through my vision, expertise and dedication”.

What to expect from him? Effortlessly desirable fashion, capable of speaking to new generations with authenticity while maintaining the legacy and prestige of the Maison that he will lead from today.