The 90's inspire the VERSACE Fall 2023 collection

Rain in Los Angeles is a rare occurrence, but when it does happen, it can cause disruptions in daily life. Understanding this, the team at Versace made the wise decision to reschedule their much-anticipated open-air Versace Fall 2023 show from Friday to Thursday, just a day before. But this change of schedule did not stop the fashion house’s fans and celebrities from coming out to support them in Beverly Hills. Celebrities like Dua Lipa, Miley Cyrus, Channing Tatum, Anne Hathaway, and Lil Nas X, as well as lifelong friends like Elton John and Cher, were in attendance, sitting front row on the roof of the Pacific Design Center.

The city view from the rooftop of the Pacific Design Center, with its stunning vista of the Hollywood Hills, the snow-capped San Bernardino Mountains, and the downtown skyline, was a fitting backdrop for the display of Versace power and glamour. The designer herself expressed her love for the city and its laid-back vibe, making it a second home for her, especially during Oscar weekend when she works with award nominees on their red carpet looks.

For this show, Versace took inspiration from a pivotal moment in the mid-90s, showcasing images of Kristen McMenamy in a chic skirt suit, tailored close to the body with signature gold buttons. The collection was described as “almost couture,” focusing on the perfect little black dress and black suit. Supermodels like Gigi Hadid, Naomi Campbell, and Kendall Jenner walked the runway in these elegant, vintage-inspired looks.

For those still shopping for an Oscar dress, there were plenty of options to choose from, including a crystal-encrusted naked dress reminiscent of Marilyn Monroe, a slinky black chainmail dress with sculptural floral embellishments, and a cone bra interpreted in various hourglass shapes. Although Versace has dabbled in streetwear in the past, it was not present in this show. Instead, denim was pressed and tailored, and even parkas were made of embossed crocodile leather or jacquard crocodile nylon.

The menswear collection was also inspired by the 90s, with loose trousers on tailored suits, swishy black skirts, body-conscious tanks, and crystal chandelier tops. Belting details on coats were taken from Donatella’s menswear collection in 2000. As the sun went down, the runway was lit up with pops of sunset colors, including glossy pink and turquoise goddess gowns. The finale was a beautiful display of sculpted black duchesse silk bustier dresses, caped opera coats, black crystalline men’s tailoring, and a gown with sheer black tulle bustier and wool silk ball skirt. The show ended with Prince’s “Let’s Go Crazy,” leaving the crowd ready to party.