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.
New Versace Abstract Print Multicolor Short Dress It. 44
By Versace
Located in Montgomery, TX
New Versace Multicolor Short Dress Designer size 44 Designed for a comfortable fit, Multi-color Pattern, Round Collar, Sleeveless, No Pockets, Rear Zip Closure, Fully Lined, Trapeze ...
New Versace Crystal Embellished White Blazer Jacket It 40 - US 6
By Versace
Located in Montgomery, TX
New Versace Crystal Embellished White Blazer Italian size 40 - US 6 Crystal Embellished, Gold-Tone Hardware. Lapel Collar Imitation, Fully Lined. Made in Italy. Retail $2250.00 New ...
Versace Grey Evening Jumpsuit with Metallic Yoke 1998
By Versace
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Resurrection Vintage is delighted to offer a vintage Versace jumpsuit from the 1998 collection. The jumpsuit features a straight neckline, silver dot beaded chest and shoulder straps, a darted torso and back side, an ankle-length bottom, and an invisible zipper down the left side. Versace Size: IT 38 Fabric: 90% Wool, 10% Silk Excellent Vintage Condition Authenticity Guaranteed Photo Versace
Versace La Greca Jacquard Loafers
By Versace
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Introducing the Versace La Greca Jacquard Loafers—a pair of sleek slippers that seamlessly blend classic style with a bold Versace touch. These loafers aren't just shoes; they are a ...
Versace Silk Pleated Skirt with Golden Patterns, 1991
By Versace
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
Versace - (Made in Italy) Silk pleated skirt with golden patterns on a black background. Indicated size 42IT, it fits a 38FR. Fall/Winter 1991 Collection. Additional information: Co...
Versace Black Velvet Dress & Evening Jacket with Fancy Buttons
By Versace
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Resurrection Vintage is excited to present a Gianni Versace black velvet jacket and skirt ensemble featuring a black velvet blazer with large black and silver-tone buttons and a matc...
1990s Versace Blue Tinted Metal Aviator Frame Sunglasses
By Versace
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
The 1990s Versace blue-tinted metal aviator sunglasses are a striking statement piece embodying the bold glamour of the era. The aviator frame, a timeless silhouette, is rendered in ...
Versace F/W 2013 Bondage Vinyl Collar Plunged Cutout Black Dress
By Versace
Located in Englishtown, NJ
Versace F/W 2013 Bondage Vinyl Collar Plunged Cutout Black Dress Size IT 38
Versace Silk Shirt Printed with Blue and Purple
By Versace
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
Versace - (Made in Italy) Silk shirt printed with blue and purple on a yellow background. Indicated size 48FR. Additional information: Condition: Very good condition Dimensions: Sho...
Versace Bondage Buckles Embellished Tweed Mini Dress
By Versace
Located in Englishtown, NJ
Versace Bondage Buckles Embellished Tweed Mini Dress IT 44
Vintage Versace Mod1131 Sleek Gold Frame 2000'S Sunglasses Italy Y2K
By Versace
Located in Baleares, Baleares
Classy And Eye Catching Vintage Versace Mod 1131 Gold Frame Holding A Pair Of Gold Mirrored Lenses Sunglasses. New! Never Worn Or Displayed This Item May Show Minor Sign Of Wear D...
Versace Vintage 1990's Shield Sunglasses
By Versace
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Vintage Gianni Versace at it's best! Get a piece of the iconic fashion house with these deadstock sunglasses. Adding the right accessories to an outfit can really take it from zero to hero! Try it out with these cool and edgy sunglasses. Vintage is always better as the quality of these sunglasses will last you a lifetime! These vintage 1990's Versace sunglasses feature a large oversized futuristic shield shape, grey tinted lenses, beautiful thin gold metal temples, and an awesome medusa detailing on each side of the sunglasses. These sunglasses have been kept safe for 30 years and are in almost new condition, never worn! These would look perfect dressed up for drinks with friends or throw them on with a t-shirt and jeans to elevate the look. Try styling these vintage Versace with some Gucci leather pants...
Versace 1990s Silver Sunglasses
By Versace
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Get your hands on these incredible Versace dead stock sunglasses circa 1990s! The perfect aviator style sunglasses featuring dusty rose lenses alongside silver tone detailing. These ...
$600Sale Price|20% Off
Versace Chain Long Sleeve Pink Bodysuit
By Versace
Located in Beverly Hills, CA
- 100% viscose - Dry cleaning only - Hook closure and front button closure - Deep V neck line - Chain print
Versace 1990s Purple Sunglasses
By Versace
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
How special are these Versace dead stock sunglasses circa 1990s?! The perfect aviator style sunglasses in a show stopping pastel purple color. These are the perfect every day sunglas...
Versace 'La Medusa' Metallic Leather Belt
By Versace
Located in London, GB
Versace 'La Medusa' Metallic Leather Belt Metallic silver leather belt with Versace's signature silver 'Medusa' head buckle. 'Versace' signature to the leather lining. Rrp Approx. ...
Versace colorful shirt
By Versace
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
VERSACE - Multicolored flower pattern shirt. Size S indicated. Condition: Very good condition Dimensions: Shoulder width: 48 cm - Chest: 52 cm - Sleeve length: 60 cm - Length: 68 c...
Versace Set of Shirt and Skirt Printed with Pink
By Versace
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
Versace - Set composed of a shirt and a skirt printed with pink on a black background. Size 38FR. Additional information: Condition: Very good condition Dimensions: Shirt: Shoulder ...
Vintage Versace Mod 4007 Sleek Tortoise Frame Sunglasses 1990's Made in Italy
By Versace, Gianni Versace
Located in Baleares, Baleares
Super 1990'S Gianni Versace Mod 4007 sleek tortoise Frame. Grey ( Uv Protection ) Lenses. New, Never Worn Or Displayed. This Pair Show Some Sign Of Wea...
Versace Y2K X87 Aviator Burnt Orange Tinted Lens Sunglasses
By Versace
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Introducing the Versace Y2K X87 Aviator Sunglasses, a stunning blend of bold fashion and distinctive craftsmanship. Featuring a striking burnt orange tinte...
Versace Black Silk Mini Dress with Drawstrings & Plunging Neckline 2000'S
By Versace
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Resurrection Vintage is excited to offer a Versace black silk day dress featuring a v-neckline with drawstrings, long sleeves with drawstrings, a back zipper, and an easy, sexy silh...
1990s Versace Aviator Sunglasses
By Versace
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
How stunning are these Versace dead stock sunglasses circa 1990s?! The perfect aviator style sunglasses featuring light blue lenses alongside brown detailing with silver tone accents. These are the perfect every day sunglasses with an elevated touch of vintage! Match these to your favorite Versace loafers and pair with a Prada hat...
Versace Black Mini Top Handle Briefcase Greek Key Sun 2VER105K
By Versace
Located in Dix hills, NY
Date Code/Serial Number: 1 Made In: Italy Measurements: Length: 12" Width: 3" Height: 8" Shoulder Handle Drop: " Handle Drop: 2 " OVERALL GOOD CONDITION ( 7/10 or B ) A...
Versace Rosenthal 1990s Porcelain Oval Serving Platter
By Versace, Rosenthal
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Elevate your dining experience with the Versace Rosenthal 1990s Porcelain Oval Serving Platter, a 14" masterpiece that adds a touch of opulence and whimsy to your table setting. Craf...
Versace Animal Print Leopard Jacket
By Versace
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
Versace - (Made in Italy) Animal print jacket with golden metal openwork buttons ornamented with rhinestones. No size indicated, it fits a 38FR/40FR. Additional information: Conditi...
Versace Logo Medusa White Denim Set comes with Shorts and Jacket
By Versace
Located in New York, NY
Beautiful Versace set. Set - shorts and jackets. Size 36 - shirt. Size 24- shorts. Fits small size. Made is Italy. Mint Condition.
Versace 1990s Black/Gold Sunglasses
By Versace
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
How stunning are these Versace dead stock sunglasses circa 1990s?! The perfect aviator style sunglasses featuring greenish blue lenses alongside black detailing with gold tone accent...
$1,799Sale Price|40% Off
VERSACE Y2K Colorful Signature Medusa Print Graffiti Pants Top Ensemble Suit M
By Versace
Located in Switzerland, CH
A colorful ensemble by Versace Designed by Donatella Versace in the early 2000s Consisting of two pieces: Top and pants Signature print with the famous Versace medusa head Full lengt...
Vintage Versace S/S 1993 Pop Floral Halterneck
By Versace
Located in London, GB
We are excited to present this Versace Jeans Couture Spring Summer 1993 floral halter neck top. Features lapel and double breasted closure with medusa button. In excellent vintage co...
Versace Jeans Couture Sun Logo Printed T-Shirt
By Versace
Located in London, GB
Versace Jeans Couture Sun Logo Printed T-Shirt Blue t-shirt crafted from cotton with one of the brand's signature designs. Gold baroque-inspired 'Sun' mo...
VERSACE 2021 Runway Baroccoflage colorful baroque wide shorts IT46 S
By Donatella Versace, Versace
Located in Hong Kong, NT
VERSACE 2021 Runway Baroccoflage colorful baroque wide shorts IT46 S Reference: TGAS/C01819 Brand: Versace Designer: Donatella Versace Model: A86432 1A01193 5B020 Collection: 2021 Ba...
Versace Black Leather Sun Backpack 861079
By Versace
Located in Dix hills, NY
Measurements: Length: 9.75" Width: 6 " Height: 14 " Shoulder Strap Drop: 13" OVERALL VERY GOOD VINTAGE CONDITION ( 7.25/10 or B+) Signs of Wear: Exterior Canvas: Minor Staining ...
Versace Collection Cotton Logo T-Shirt
By Versace
Located in London, GB
Versace Collection Cotton Logo T-Shirt Black t-shirt crafted from cotton with gold 'Versace Collection' logo print to the chest. Shirt sleeves, crew neckline and regular-fit. Rrp ...
Versace Jeans Couture Logo Printed Cotton T-Shirt
By Versace
Located in London, GB
Versace Jeans Couture Logo Printed Cotton T-Shirt Black, cotton t-shirt designed with gold 'Versace Jeans Couture' signature logo prints to the front. Featuring ribbed crew necklin...
Versace Size 8A Boy's Black Blue Baroque Zip Up Hoodie Sweatshirt Kids 125v26
By Versace
Located in Dix hills, NY
Versace Size 8A Boy's Black Blue Baroque Zip Up Hoodie Sweatshirt Kids 125v26 Date Code/Serial Number: 0461B412F66B80 Made In: Italy Measurements: Length: 15.5" Width: .3" Height: ...
Versace Red Leather Charm Tote 5VER1214K
By Versace
Located in Dix hills, NY
Versace Red Leather Charm Tote 5VER1214K Date Code/Serial Number: N/A Made In: N/A Measurements: Length: 10" Width: 4.5" Height: 8 " Shoulder Handle...
Versace Green and Purple Minidress
By Versace
Located in London, GB
A contemporary Versace minidress in green with a swirled purple motif in purple suede. The motif then grows into the asymmetrical one shoulder. The dress also has a short thigh slit,...
New Versace One Shoulder Color-Block Cocktail Metal Dress It. 38, 40, 42.
By Versace
Located in Montgomery, TX
New Versace One Shoulder Color-Block Cocktail Dress Italian sizes available - 38, 40, 42. US - 4,6,8. Metal Detail Embellished Fabric N# 1 - 78% Wool, 20% Polyester, 2% Elastane. Fab...
Versace Jeans Couture Stripe Shirt - '00s
By Versace
Located in Milano, Lombardia
The Versace Jeans Couture Stripe Shirt is expertly crafted from 100% linen, providing both breathability and durability. The white shirt is accented with bold blue stripes and featur...
Versace White Silk Satin & Chiffon Evening Dress with Crystals, FW 2004
By Versace, Donatella Versace
Located in London, GB
▪ Brand: Versace ▪ Creative Director: Donatella Versace ▪ Collection: Fall-Winter 2004 ▪ Fabric: Silk Satin, Silk Chiffon ▪ Size: IT42 - FR38 - UK10 - US6 ▪ Made in: Italy ▪ Conditio...
Versace S/S 2012 Seashell printed shorts
By Donatella Versace, Versace
Located in Milano, IT
Spring/Summer 2012 Runway look 7 Designed by Donatella Seashell-Printed Shorts Two pockets and inner wire detailing at the side seams High-waisted Fitted to the body Made n Italy Con...
Gianni Versace Wool and Silk Jacket
By Versace, Gianni Versace
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
Versace - (Made in Italy) Wool and silk jacket. Size 42IT. Additional information: Condition: Very good condition Dimensions: Shoulder width: 42 cm - Chest: 43 cm - Sleeve length: 5...
Versace Crystal Medusa Logo Cotton Sweatshirt
By Versace
Located in London, GB
Versace Crystal Medusa Logo Cotton Sweatshirt Black cotton, sweatshirt designed with signature, crystal 'Versace' Medusa logo. Ribbed crew neckline, cuffs and hem. Rrp Approx. £1,0...
Versace DFZ5350 $975 Blue Zaino Stampa Logo Nylon Backpack Travel Bag 39v54s
By Versace
Located in Dix hills, NY
Date Code/Serial Number: 045FA3BAB56280 Made In: Italy Measurements: Length: 12.5" Width: 7" Height: 16" Shoulder Handle Drop: 8.5"-12.5" Handle Drop: 4" OVERALL VERY GOOD COND...
Versace Size 10A Boy's Black Blue Baroque Zip Up Hoodie Sweatshirt Kids 124v6
By Versace
Located in Dix hills, NY
Versace Size 10A Boy's Black Blue Baroque Zip Up Hoodie Sweatshirt Kids 124v6 Date Code/Serial Number: 044DB412F66B81 Made In: Italy Measurements: Length: 16.5" Width: .4" Height: ...
Versace Size 10A Boy's Black Blue Baroque Zip Up Hoodie Sweatshirt Kid 121v39
By Versace
Located in Dix hills, NY
Versace Size 10A Boy's Black Blue Baroque Zip Up Hoodie Sweatshirt Kid 121v39 Date Code/Serial Number: 044DB412F66B81 Made In: Italy Measurements: Length: 16.5" Width: .4" Height: ...