Life of a Designer BORN Reggio Calabria 1946 TRAINING Apprenticed at mother Franca's seamstress business in Reggio EARLY CAREER Moves to Milan in 1972 as contract designer and in 1978 brings out first collection under own name. In early 1980s, begins close links with rock 'n' roll and entertainment worlds FAMILY COMPANY Gianni Versace, 50% owned by Gianni, 30% brother Santo, and 20% sister Donatella STRATEGY Establish Versace as a strong global brand, branch out into nonfashion lines like home accessories, and double sales by 2000 Return to main story

Updated July 17, 1997 by bwwebmaster
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