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Versace for sale on 1stDibs
Subversive, maximalist and unabashedly seductive, Gianni Versace’s (1946–97) designs infused high fashion with an entirely new ethos. “I don’t believe in good taste,” the legendary Italian couturier once explained. Instead, he had a sexy good time with fashion — as he did with life. Today, vintage Versace clothing, handbags and other accessories look astonishingly fresh and freshly relevant.
More than any designer before him, Versace mined celebrity, music and Pop art for inspiration. In fact, the New York Times noted in 1997 that the fashion industry “is now driven by contemporary culture because Mr. Versace made it that way.”
Insiders consider his 1991/1992 Autumn/Winter runway show — which featured supermodels Christy Turlington, Cindy Crawford, Naomi Campbell and Linda Evangelista lip-synching George Michael’s “Freedom! '90” — the moment when the two worlds of fashion and pop culture became one, changing both forever.
Versace was born in Reggio di Calabria, Italy. His mother was a successful dressmaker who employed more than 40 seamstresses. As a child, little Gianni marveled at her workshop, which would become a university of sorts, where he learned the exceptional construction techniques that were at the foundation of his creative expression.
In 1972, at age 25, Versace moved to Milan to work in fashion. He launched his first collection — and his label — in 1978, with his older brother Santo managing the business concerns. Soon, sister Donatella, whom Gianni dressed and took to discos when she was still a child, joined the family venture, where she had a creative role and managed enormously popular ready-to-wear lines such as Versus.
Vintage Versace — and Gianni Versace Couture, which debuted in 1989 — has become catnip for modern fashion enthusiasts who seek out the now-iconic house codes that originated in the designs of the 1980s and 1990s. His glamorous and seductive apparel — the clingy skirts and slender, strappy party dresses, as well as the erotic magazine ads that publicized them — looms large, but Versace’s art and historical influences were also vast.
Versace was an art collector, and he took on commissions to create costumes for theatrical performances during the 1980s and spoke of looking to numerous cultures for inspiration. This adventurous spirit of design resulted in his creating jewel-toned prints rooted in Grecian motifs, Etruscan symbols, the Italian Baroque and Andy Warholʼs Marilyn Monroe. There were slinky dresses in Oroton, his patented chain-mail textile that draped like satin, and leather bondage ensembles. Sex sold, for both women and men. Wrote the late curator Richard Martin, “[Versace] became the standard-bearer of gay men’s fashion because he eschewed decorum and designed for desire.”
Following Versace’s tragic murder in 1997, Donatella took over the role of artistic director and continued to evolve the house codes with a twist of her feminine and feminist perspective. Today, Santo Versace is chief executive officer of Versace and Donatella is its chief creative officer.
Browse an extraordinary collection of vintage Versace evening dresses, handbags, day dresses, accessories and more on 1stDibs.
Fashion of the 1990s
For fashion lovers, the 1990s have become associated with styles adopted by today’s supermodels and influencers, who never wear the same thing twice. And because fast fashion didn’t yet exist, the design associated with 1990s fashion — vintage '90s handbags, clothing and accessories — has a quality appreciated by the millennial generation: authenticity.
If there was one concept unifying fashion in the 1990s, it was the lean silhouette. “Fashion is a game of proportion,” Alexander Fury wrote in the New York Times in 2016. “Narrow-shouldered and narrow-hipped, the ’90s were skinny.”
If it takes a practiced eye to identify that single concept, that’s because in truth, ’90s fashion was many things to many people. After the 1980s era of strong-shouldered working women, glossy aerobicized bodies and Madonna, fashion branched out.
The industry gained momentum from big-money relaunches of the great Paris houses Dior, Givenchy and Balenciaga, rescued at long last from the constraints of licensing. Japan and Belgium gave fashion new avant-garde ideas to play with. From America came denim, minimalism, '90s grunge fashion and hip-hop. From Italy came sex appeal. And Prada.
For the colorful corsets of her 1990 Portrait collection, audacious British designer Dame Vivienne Westwood drew on 18th-century oil paintings — her models donned the pearl choker necklaces that have become a social media star and a favorite of influencers and fashion lovers all over the world. For a jacket-and-shorts suit from her Fall/Winter 1996–97 Storm in a Teacup line, the designer used the extreme asymmetry of a tartan mash-up to confront, according to Westwood, “the horror of uniformity and minimalism.”
“The ethos of the time was, you could have style, you could be into all kinds of cool stuff. It wasn’t about money, it wasn’t about status,” says Katy Rodriguez, cofounder of Resurrection. In contrast, “our last 10 years have seen the domination of nonstop luxury, money and status.”
Vintage 1990s Chanel bags, for example, are among the most prized of the brand’s offerings — at Newfound Luxury, proprietor L. Kiyana Macon has "clients who only buy ’90s Chanel because they recognize that it is the best quality.”
Things were different in the ’90s, and the difference is reflected in the clothes. Pull up any recent “How to Do the 1990s” fashion article (or look at photos of current supermodels Gigi, Kendall and Bella), and you’ll see iconic '90s outfits — knee socks, cardigans, fanny packs, fishnet stockings, slip dresses, flannel shirts and combat boots.
Rodriguez has recently noticed something similar happening. Before COVID, customers searched 1990s stock “for very sexy Galliano, Dior, Cavalli — that kind of thing,” she explains, noting that just a few months ago, “people were posting [on social media] the poshest things they could.” Now, in the age of shutdown, “that would just look out of touch.”
Instead, people are looking for “things that are cool but also easy and comfortable, not necessarily super-luxe,” Rodriguez continues. They’re “heading back to the more avant-garde, anti-fashion designers, like Helmut Lang, [Martin] Margiela and [Ann] Demeulemeester.”
Late designer Franco Moschino shocked and titillated the ’80s fashion elite with his whimsical, irreverent parodies of bourgeois finery. Whether emblazoning a sober blazer with smiley faces or embellishing a skirt suit with cutlery, Moschino rendered high style with a hearty wink. He famously said, “If you can’t be elegant, at least be extravagant” — words that, with all due respect to Susan Sontag, epitomize the essence of camp.
Vintage Moschino pants, jackets and other '90s Moschino garments remain so bold and fresh today that even the house's former creative director, Jeremy Scott, drew on the brand's past and the pop culture of the decade for his debut collection in 2014.
Find vintage 90s dresses, skirts, sweaters and other clothing and accessories on 1stDibs — shop Thierry Mugler, Miuccia Prada, Jean Paul Gaultier and more today.
Finding the Right sunglasses for You
A pair of vintage designer sunglasses can be a game-changing finishing touch to your ensemble.
No matter your age or general fashion sensibility, wearing sunglasses may already be part of your regular outdoor routine owing to their practicality. Most sunglasses protect the eyes from harmful UV (ultraviolet) rays — and not merely on sunny days. Glasses that utilize color-enhancing lenses, which feature specific coatings or filter tints, can limit the amount of light coming through, while polarized lenses substantially reduce glare.
So while their usefulness is well known, let’s face it, a good pair of sunglasses can be stylish too.
People have been making a statement with iconic eyewear for a while — sunglasses garnered popularity with the Hollywood set in the early 1900s, when it wasn’t uncommon for a hip actress to be photographed in a pair of her sharpest shades.
Today, we’re still talking about the sunglasses that Audrey Hepburn — the original trendsetter — donned in the opening scene of 1961’s Breakfast at Tiffany’s. She emerges from the flagship store of the legendary luxury house referenced in the film’s title in a pair of glamorous dark tortoiseshell frames designed by London eyewear firm Oliver Goldsmith Sunglasses. The brand was a keeper for Hepburn — in 1967, she famously wore a pair of Goldsmith’s Yuhu wraparound frames in the poster for Stanley Donen’s film Two for the Road.
Indeed, celebrities have long held sway in the sunglasses realm — perhaps you’ve opted for vintage Ray-Ban sunglasses because you’re enamored with Marilyn Monroe’s celebrated Wayfarers or you’ve taken to classic Aviators because actor Jon Hamm wore them in the nostalgic TV smash hit Mad Men. Good frames are a surefire way to take your style to the next level.
When shopping for the right pair of sunglasses, consider the color and shape of the frames (as well as the shape of your face), how dark or light the lenses are — or tint, if you’re leaning toward a chic gradient lens. Take your time, spring for more than one pair because different moods call for different shades and, while you’re at it, make sure you know how to spot a pair of fake Ray-Ban sunglasses before you make that purchase.
On 1stDibs, our collection of vintage designer sunglasses features classics from Gucci, Cartier, Chanel and other brands as well as a wide range that can be sorted by color — find sleek black sunglasses, brown pairs and a whole lot of other eye-catching options, whether it’s sunny outside or not.
- 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 28, 2024To spot a fake Versace T-shirt, look for even the slightest trace of sloppy workmanship, such as stray threads or a blurry pattern. Stitching should be meticulous and precise. Any spelling or spacing errors evident in engraved hardware or within logos that appear on wash tags and collar labels are indicators of a fake T-shirt. Additionally, the storied Italian luxury house works strictly with high-quality fabrics. If your garment feels flimsy or cheap, chances are it’s a fake. For contemporary T-shirts and other apparel, Versace developed an online authentication system. For more information and next steps, consult the brand’s official website (you will likely need a smartphone). Shop a collection of vintage Versace clothing from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 27, 2024The Versace designer who made the “pants-boots” is Donatella Versace. Pop star and fashion icon Jennifer Lopez was photographed in 2018 in what is likely the best known pair of denim Versace over-the-knee boots, which are pants-like in appearance and feature the celebrated label’s legendary Medusa detail, pockets and a belt. They are a true fashion statement. The over-the-knee boots that Lopez wore back then officially debuted as part of Versace’s 2019 Resort collection. Singer Dua Lipa, who collaborated with Donatella Versace on a women’s collection in 2023, is also a fan of the brand’s denim over-the-knee boots. Find vintage Versace over-the-knee boots on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Yes, Versace manufactures sunglasses with UV protection. Consult the brand’s website or an authorized retailer near you for more specific information. Shop a collection of vintage and modern Versace sunglasses from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022The exact weight of a Versace wallet depends on the design of the model. Some Versace wallets have large metal decorations which will contribute to their weight. For exact information, consult an authorized retailer near you. On 1stDibs, you’ll find a collection of vintage and contemporary Versace wallets from some of the world’s top sellers.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Check the authenticity of Versace products by tapping the NFC tag with your phone or scanning the QR code. Be warned that some fakes will give you a logo code so make sure you verify it online. Shop a collection of Versace accessories from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
- Where can I buy Versace?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertMarch 14, 2024You can buy Versace clothes and accessories from the brand’s website, its brick-and-mortar boutiques all over the world, or its various retail partners. You can also find new and vintage Versace on third-party seller platforms (make sure you’re purchasing authenticated apparel and accessories). On 1stDibs, you'll find authentic vintage and modern Versace pieces from trusted sellers worldwide.
- Does Versace have accessories?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Yes. Versace offers a wide range of accessories for men and women, including jewelry, hats, bags, shoes, scarves, watches, belts, wallets, and more. On 1stDibs, you'll find a large selection of authentic modern and vintage Versace accessories from top sellers around the world.
- Does Versace go on sale?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022You can find great sales on Versace's ready-to-wear items, bags, accessories and even home decor on the brand’s website, its brick-and-mortar boutiques, or through various online and in-store retailers. On 1stDibs, find Versace clothes, accessories and home decor from top sellers around the world.
- Does Versace run true to size?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Versace clothing runs true to size but the brand uses Italian sizing standards. If you’re used to purchasing clothing with US sizes, it might benefit you to determine your Italian size or order up a size because Italian sizes can run slightly smaller. Shop a collection of authentic Versace clothing from some of the world’s top boutiques on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Versace is known to offer some customizable and personalized products. For more information about specific products, consult the brand’s website. Shop a collection of vintage and contemporary Versace clothing and accessories from some of the world’s top boutiques on 1stDibs.
- How do I tie a Versace bathrobe?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022There are different ways to tie a Versace bathrobe, depending on style. Some prefer to wrap once and do a center tie, while others go for a side tie. Whatever you preferred style, you’ll find a collection of vintage and contemporary Versace robes on 1stDibs from some of the world’s top sellers.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022No, Versace has always been a privately owned company. Founded by Gianni Versace, it is still creatively directed by his sister Donatella since 1997. From vintage to contemporary collections, you’ll find a wide collection of expertly-vetted Versace clothing and accessories on 1stDibs.
- Is Versus Versace fake?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertMarch 14, 2024No, Versus Versace is not fake. It was a diffusion brand of Versace founded in 1989. Versus Versace was closed in 2005 but the brand was brought back by Donatella Versace four years later. Versus Versace eventually evolved into Versace Jeans Couture in the late 2010s. Shop a collection of vintage and contemporary Versace clothing and accessories on 1stDibs.
- Is Donatella Versace a designer?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Yes, Donatella Versace is the current creative director of Versace, a position she has held since her brother’s death in 1997. Whether you’re looking for vintage or contemporary Versace clothes and accessories, you’ll find a large collection on 1stDibs.
- Does Versace use gold?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Yes, Versace uses real gold in their fine jewelry collections. For information about specific products, consult the brand’s website. On 1stDibs, you’ll find a collection of expertly-vetted vintage and contemporary Versace jewelry from some of the world’s top sellers.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022The best way to determine the year of manufacture on your Versace product is to contact the brand directly or consult an expert. Decoding Versace serial numbers is something of a trade secret, and the rules on how to read them vary between different product lines. On 1stDibs, shop a collection of Versace clothing and accessories from some of the world’s top boutiques.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022To clean Versace sunglasses, use a mild dish soap to wash the lens surface if water alone isn’t enough. Make sure that the soap is lotion-free, and run the sunglasses under warm water. Never dry or scrub with paper products or your shirt’s fabric, which can permanently scratch the lenses. Dry your sunglasses with a soft, lint-free cloth to keep them in good condition. Shop a collection of vintage and contemporary Versace sunglasses on 1stDibs.
- How do I fix a Versace belt?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022How you fix your Versace belt depends on the damage. In most cases, the best way to fix it is to take it to a reputable leather repair service that has experience working with luxury leather accessories. On 1stDibs, find vintage and contemporary Versace belts and other accessories from top sellers around the world.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022To find the value of a pair of vintage Versace clothing, experts suggest that you work with a certified appraiser. While some online resources are helpful when you’re looking for information about the value of an item, the suggested value you find may not reflect the actual value of your item. The actual value depend on a number of factors, including the shape your garments are in. You’ll find expertly-vetted vintage Versace clothing on 1stDibs.
- Is all Versace jewelry signed?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Yes, all Versace jewelry features a maker's mark to identify it and help with authentication. It's important to buy from an authorized retailer to ensure authenticity. On 1stDibs, shop a collection of expertly-vetted vintage and contemporary Versace jewelry from some of the world's top sellers.