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    Looking back: 6 key highlights from Donatella Versace’s career

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    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    2 hours ago

    Donatella didn’t just inherit Versace—she redefined it.
    Today, marks one of the most defining moments in the fashion world, as the highly sought-after Donatella Versace steps down as Creative Director of the brand after 30 years.
    Having made a mark at the Italian fashion house for years, her career came with no easy feat. Founded by the visionary Gianni Versace in 1978, the fashion house has consistently delivered groundbreaking moments throughout the decades. In the 1990s, Versace became a driving force behind the supermodel phenomenon, with legends like Naomi Campbell, Cindy Crawford, and Claudia Schiffer gracing its runways in unforgettable shows.

     Today marks the next chapter in the maison’s legacy, and as we remember her time at the house, let’s look back at some of the key moments of Donatella’s career at Versace.

    Taking Over Versace

    Being at the helm of the house since 1997, Donatella Versace took over the house as creative director after her brother Gianni’s tragic passing away in 1997. Since then, she has kept the brand alive and evolving it into a global powerhouse.
    Jennifer Lopez Shuts Down the Runway—Again

    In 1999, Donatella wore her famed jungle-print gown to the final Met Gala of the 20th century. Later, Jennifer Lopez made history twice with the famous Versace jungle print gown. First wearing the gown at the 42nd Grammy’s in 2000, Nearly 20 years later, J.Lo shut down the Versace Spring 2020 Milan Fashion Week show by strutting the runway in an updated version of the jungle dress. The moment was a brilliant mix of nostalgia and fashion dominance.
    Going beyond fashion
    By taking the house one step further, as creative director she thought beyond fashion. Under Donatella, Versace expanded into home décor, fragrances, and hotels, turning it into a lifestyle empire.
    The H&M collaboration

    In 2011, she made high fashion accessible with a hugely successful Versace x H&M collection, selling out worldwide and paving the way for future designer collaborations.
    Artistic influences

    Gianni Versace was inspired by Warhol’s bold, colorful aesthetic, and Donatella continued this vision by incorporating Warhol-inspired prints into Versace collections, blending fashion with pop art. In 2019, she also brought streetwear together with a Kith x Versace collection, which modernised the brand’s aesthetic for a younger audience. Through her artistic vision, the brand even expanded into the Palazzo Versace Hotels group in both Australia and Dubai in 2000 and 2015 respectively. It featured baroque interiors, custom-designed furniture, and fashion-infused architecture.
    To replace her, former Miu Miu design director Dario Vitale takes on the position of creative director and we’re all set to see what’s next for the fashion brand.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram  More

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      Simone Bellotti takes reigns as Jil Sander’s new creative director

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      Fashion

      by Sarah Joseph
      1 hour ago

      Jil Sander along with its parent company OTB Group have made an announcement regarding Simone Bellotti, as the house’s new creative director.
      The Milan-born designer joins the brand from Bally, where he held the position for just under two years. He previously worked in the Gucci design studio and also held positions at fashion houses such as Bottega Veneta, D&G and much more. With Bally dating back to 170 years – its rich history makes Bellotti’s experience at the house a useful asset to his newest role.
      The latest news, was followed by the surprise exit of former co-creative directors Luke and Lucie Meier after their Fall/Winter 2025 show.

      Simone Bellotti, “I am incredibly honored to join Jil Sander, a storied house that created a new aesthetic with its unique approach and strong identity, and that has always had such a significant influence on the design community.”
      The brand was established in 1968 by Mrs. Jil Sander and it was acquired by the OTB Fashion Group in 2021. Also, Jil Sander is present worldwide through its network of around 70 boutiques and JilSander.com, as well as available in selected multi-brand retailers.
      Adding to this, Renzo Rosso, Chairman of OTB Group said, “Simone embarks on this journey with extensive experience and a distinct talent. Over the time spent together we shared the strategic vision and mission for Jil Sander, the values of innovation and sophistication that make it an iconic and unique brand.”
      Overall, Belotti brings his vast area of expertise to the table as he draws on art, photography and music for inspiration. As a natural fit for the role, it will be exciting to see what lies ahead with his fresh perspective in the sartorial world.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @ More

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      Alberto Caliri on crafting the artistic tapestry of Missoni Home and building a legacy

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      Emirates Manby Ruman Baig2 hours ago Alberto Caliri has not only overseen ready-to-wear collections for Missoni but has also made substantial contributions to the realms of home decoration and furniture design for the luxury brand.His distinguished curricular studies and research in arts, textiles, and colours have cultivated a unique perspective that has seamlessly evolved with Missoni since 1998.Transitioning to the position of Missoni Home Collection Creative Director in March 2022, Caliri’s journey reflects a deliberate fusion of Missoni’s heritage with contemporary elements.In a freewheeling chat with Emirates Man, Caliri talks about the intricacies of his vision, examining the intersection of chromatic shades, irony, and profound sensitivity that shape Missoni’s Home collections.Alberto, your career with Missoni spans over two decades, transitioning from overseeing ready-to-wear collections to becoming the Creative Director of Missoni Home Collection. How has your journey evolved, and what inspired this transition?I’ve dedicated two decades working with Missoni, where it has allowed me to showcase my creative prowess. I’ve always been passionate about home design, so it was a natural choice for me to transition to Missoni home. It has been a lifelong passion which I’m happy to finally embrace. It has evolved naturally, and I think there is no better time to do it but now especially with the opportunities to create beautiful homes and leisure destinations.Missoni is known for its iconic colour palettes and zigzag patterns. How do you ensure a harmonious synergy between Missoni’s heritage and contemporary elements in the brand’s home collections, particularly in Moonstone Interiors by Missoni residences?Throughout the creative process of Moonstone Interiors by Missoni, we made sure to showcase the unparalleled expertise in luxury design and craftmanship Missoni has been known for. We did our best to integrate the natural environment of beachside living, with the design elements of Missoni, through a harmonious play with light, silhouettes, and shadows – creating a sophisticated coastal allure.The Moonstone Interiors by Missoni project in Ras Al Khaimah reflects a passion for art, culture, and nature. Can you elaborate on how Missoni’s iconic elements blend with details inspired by natural beauty, creating a unique and refined environment for this residential project?Unique combination of lines and colors, when applied to every detail of the project from the architecture to the interiors, furnishings and accessories, reflected a clear distinction and created an imprint that cannot be replicated. We played with the natural environment and the sophisticated craftmanship of the development – allowing us to create a distinctive Missoni residence that has the coastal imprint and opulent design.The Moonstone Interiors by Missoni residences are expected to be completed by the end of 2026. What challenges and opportunities do you anticipate in bringing Missoni’s design philosophy to a luxury residential project, and how does it differ from your work in fashion collections?One of the challenges we faced is the anticipation of the final product, where you are unable to see, touch and feel the ‘real thing’ until they finish the development. You are only able to experience such through renders and alike. Whereas clothing pieces can have prototypes to see the look and feel. However, with the long-standing expertise of our team, we have sharpened our abilities to ensure that the design philosophy of Missoni is gracefully executed and experienced by its residents regardless.The development includes various amenities such as a swimming pool, rooftop sunset pool, gym, spas, and more. How do you approach the integration of interior design with functional spaces to enhance the overall living experience for the residents?Our team made sure that the unique and vibrant aesthetic, along with the fusion of colors and patterns, echoes the vibrant essence of beachside living that is boasting in AlMarjan Island. Being aware of the natural elements, and the energy of the place allowed us to integrate the Missoni beachside allure, which is present in some of the properties we have launched previously.Reflective and transparent surfaces are strategically integrated into the Moonstone Interiors, creating a kaleidoscopic effect with natural light. How does this design choice contribute to the overall ambiance, and what impact do you expect it to have on the residents’ experience?Our goal is for its residents to experience a visually immersive experience that isn’t disruptive of daily life. We wanted the Missoni allure to effortlessly, and naturally fall into place by simply elevating the already existing luxury living within the property.Missoni as a brand is associated with bold design, elevated luxury, and attention to detail. How do you ensure that these values become the hallmarks of Moonstone Interiors by Missoni, and what sets this development apart in terms of design and luxury within the real estate landscape?With the brand’s commitment to luxurious craftmanship, the interiors typically feature a harmonious blend of Missoni’s signature patterns and textures, creating a visually striking and cohesive living environment. The attention to detail extends to the selection of furnishings, textiles, and finishes, all carefully curated to embody the brand’s unique style. This holistic approach to design sets Missoni residences apart, offering residents a truly immersive and exclusive lifestyle.– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramImages: Supplied by Missoni  More

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      Creative Director of Pellicano Group on fearlessly elevating the family firm

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      Life

      by Amy Sessions
      2 hours ago

      CEO and Creative Director of Pellicano Group, Marie-Louise Scio talks to Emirates Woman about fearlessly elevating the family firm with fire, passion and an acute attention to detail.
      What do the first 30 minutes of your day look like, your morning routine?
      I kickstart my day with a 25-minute meditation session. Itʼs like a mental reset button, helping me to stay centred and focused as I step into the day ahead.
      How do you combine legacy with modernity now that you are at the helm of the family firm?
      Balancing our rich legacy with the demands of the modern world feels like second nature to me. Itʼs all about honouring the values and traditions that have been the bedrock of our family business while infusing it with fresh ideas and contemporary approaches to meet our guestsʼ ever-evolving needs.
      How do you define the different DNA of the properties and is there a common thread that connects them all?
      Each of our hotels has its unique DNA, shaped by the captivating stories and settings of their locales. My approach involves infusing every aspect of our hotels, from design to cuisine and ambiance, with the very essence of these remarkable places. Itʼs all about creating a truly immersive and sensorial experience. And what ties them together? Itʼs an unwavering commitment to delivering top-notch quality across all our properties, ensuring our guests experience the utmost in comfort, service, and overall excellence.

      You launched ISSIMO – tell us how this brave move into ecommerce came about and what was the final catalyst to launch?
      The idea for ISSIMO blossomed from my desire to extend the magic of our hotels beyond their physical boundaries. I wanted to encapsulate the entire sensory experience in one digital space. So, I broke it down into various categories, and it naturally led to the creation of a dedicated website. Yes, ISSIMO is wonderfully diverse, but thatʼs precisely the point. Itʼs the online embodiment of the Pellicano world, reflecting our philosophy of quality and excellence. The name itself, ISSIMO, signifies ‘the bestʼ, and thatʼs precisely what we aim to offer. ISSIMO isnʼt just e-commerce; itʼs also a treasure trove of editorial content. Itʼs a place where you can shop and explore Italyʼs regions through the eyes of knowledgeable locals, guiding you to the best of everything.
      What has been the biggest success since the launch and. are there any pieces which drive sales season after season?
      Our most celebrated achievement since the launch has been the Monopoly ISSIMO. Itʼs a unique collectible edition, “The Italian Road Trip,” that adds an irresistible Italian twist to the classic board game. Players roll the dice and embark on a journey through the beautiful Italian landscape, discovering iconic locations, hidden gems, delicious cuisine, and storied artisans along the way. And yes, itʼs been a hit season after season. In addition, our hotel merchandising, from signature ‘stripesʼ towels to cosy bathrobes, has been adored by individuals and businesses alike. Itʼs a testament to the love for our brand.
      When have you had to be fearless in life and how did this materialize?
      Fearlessness has been a constant companion in both my personal and professional life. In my career, it often means trusting my instincts when doubt tries to creep in. Iʼve found that my most significant accomplishments occurred when I followed my gut and persevered through challenges.

      What is your biggest strength?
      Iʼd say resilience. Itʼs the ability to adapt, bounce back, and stay committed, even in the face of adversity,that has been a cornerstone of my journey.
      What has been the biggest challenge to date and how did you overcome it?
      Iʼve faced personal and professional challenges. My approach? Dive in and be fully present. By immersing myself in these challenges, Iʼve found solutions and worked through them.
      Have you had any mentors in life, and if so, what knowledge did they impart?
      Iʼve been fortunate to have many mentors whoʼve influenced my perspective and taught me a lot. My parents, in particular, have been pivotal. They taught me to think big, to never limit myself, and to push boundaries.
      What is a kindness you’ve received or a lesson you’ve learned that you’d like to pay forward?
      The importance of open listening is a lesson close to my heart. I strive to maintain this openness in my interactions, fostering meaningful connections and mutual growth.

      What piece of advice would you give to your younger self?
      Iʼd tell my younger self not to rush and always to believe in myself. Trust your journey, and have confidence inyour abilities.
      How do you approach scaling without compromising on quality?
      I canʼt reveal all our secrets, but I can assure you that quality is at the heart of our approach. It’s non-negotiable. Quality permeates everything we do, from our team members to our products and services.
      What is the key to client retention in the luxury space?
      Client retention in luxury hinges on offering a unique perspective and delivering outstanding service and experiences consistently.
      October – The Fearlessness Issue with Chaumet  – Download Now
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      Images: Supplied More