Donatella Versace has been awarded one of Italy’s highest national honors for her contribution to Italian fashion and culture.
Donatella Versace is now a a Grand Officer of the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic.Photo: Andreas Archeos
Versace attended a private ceremony last week at the Ministry of Interior in Milan, where she was named a Grand Officer of the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic. The next day, she met Italy’s head of state, President Sergio Mattarella, as part of 2024’s celebration of Italy’s national day.
“I am hugely honored to be receiving this award from the President of Italy,” said Versace in a release today. She added: “It is a recognition not just for me but for the company we founded over four decades ago, for my fantastic team, and for the global Versace community who champion ‘Made in Italy’ every single day.”
Versace is no stranger to fashionland’s many podiums and awards. However the accolade she received from the Italian Republic is an especially meaningful distinction. She was proposed for the honor by the parliamentarian and activist Alessandro Zan. As Versace noted, “This award also recognizes the very urgent need to champion minority voices, freedom of expression and inclusivity both here in Italy and globally. Tolerance, understanding, and unconditional love have never been more important in our world.”
Originally published in Vogue.com
