Last week in Milan, Versace presented its Spring/Summer 2021 collection to explore more than fashion. First, the house dug deep into the history of the Acropolis of Athens. Shining with several temples and its Parthenon, the ancient citadel is globally known for its architectural and historic significance. But there’s a lot of history that can, at times, go unnoticed.
One of those tales is about Medusa—a beautiful woman who was banished from Athens in a fit of jealousy by Athena; and the face of the brand from the beginning. For Medusa, Acropolis was not welcoming, but instead becoming a place to flee. With sights on a new place to reign in strength and confidence, she lands in a new destination today: Versacepolis.
Courtesy of Versace.
Versacepolis was explored by Donatella Verace through true duality—with inspiration that came washing ashore from the sea. With over 80 percent of the ocean unmapped and unexplored, it’s a utopian settlement in its own right. Perhaps it is here that Medusa would be most happy, coexisting with the mysterious, deep sea.
“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,” said Donatella Versace. “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.”
Courtesy of Versace.
On a dazzling set for sore eyes, clad with columns and a wash of blue hues, we saw the resilient aquatic world explored. From the office to the outdoors, and from the boardroom to the sea, the latest collection pairs outfits with a high-low lifestyle approach. Bright colors splashed from bold silhouettes, making up new accessories and eclectic takes on house staples. Charisma popped from underwater prints; hemlines were inspired by the waves and tides; and sea creatures were revitalized in vibrant shades and various sizes. Versace’s iconic Trésor de la Mer print was reimagined this way, too, and again in a largescale pleated rendition.
Graphic rash guards are worn with sky-high platform shoes; men’s collars are undone, coupled with orange sunglasses up top; and leisurely looks take on slouchy silhouettes, playful details, and sophisticated yet comfortable fabrics. Starfish pins, ruffles of bright contrasting colors, bucket hats, and bright sea charms that dangle from bags were seen complementing each look.
Courtesy of Versace.
Models walking in the show rocked dripping wet hair and a wonderfully empowered attitude—an energy Medusa is sure to embody as she marches into the future, and into her new normal, with hope.
Courtesy of Versace.
