Despite the infrequent nature of rain in Los Angeles, it can cause quite the disruption when it does fall. This is why the folks at Versace decided to move their highly anticipated open-air show from Friday to Thursday, just a day before. Nevertheless, this change did not prevent the fashion house’s famous friends and fans from coming to show their support in Beverly Hills. Celebrities such as Dua Lipa, Miley Cyrus, Channing Tatum, Anne Hathaway, and Lil Nas X, as well as long-time friends like Elton John and Cher, all made an appearance, sitting front row on the roof of the Pacific Design Center.
The rooftop of the Pacific Design Center offered a breathtaking view of the Hollywood Hills, the snow-capped San Bernardino Mountains, and the downtown skyline, serving as the perfect backdrop for the display of Versace’s power and glamour. The designer herself spoke of her love for the city and its relaxed atmosphere, making it feel like a second home, especially during Oscar weekend when she works with award nominees on their red carpet looks.
For the show, Versace drew inspiration from the mid-90s, showcasing images of Kristen McMenamy in a chic skirt suit, tailored close to the body with the brand’s signature gold buttons. The collection was referred to as “almost couture“, with a focus on the perfect little black dress and black suit. Supermodels such as Gigi Hadid, Naomi Campbell, and Kendall Jenner walked the runway in these vintage-inspired, elegant looks.
For those still searching for an Oscar dress, there were plenty of options available, including a crystal-encrusted naked dress reminiscent of Marilyn Monroe, a black chainmail dress with sculptural floral embellishments, and hourglass-shaped interpretations of the cone bra. Although Versace has explored 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, featuring loose trousers on tailored suits, black skirts, body-conscious tanks, and crystal chandelier tops. Coat belting details were taken from Donatella’s menswear collection in 2000. As the sun set, the runway was lit up with pops of sunset colors, including glossy pink and turquoise goddess gowns. The finale was a stunning display of black duchesse silk bustier dresses, caped opera coats, black crystalline men’s tailoring, and a gown with a sheer black tulle bustier and wool silk ball skirt. The show ended with Prince’s “Let’s Go Crazy“, leaving the crowd eager to party.
