Versace, Gianni (1946–1997)

Italian fashion designer. He was one of the new school of Milan-based Italian designers who dominated the fashion world during the 1980s and 1990s. Versace founded his own business and presented a menswear collection in 1978. He diversified into women's wear, accessories, perfumes, furs, and costumes for opera, theatre, and ballet, using simple shapes and strong colours to create provocative clothing. His work was frequently criticized by fashion pundits for its gaudy vulgarity and its predilection for elements of sadomasochist bondage and leather. He was shot dead in 1997.