The
world of Versace is sparkly, jeweled, and not of this earth, as the Medusa head can surely attest. The Versace optical glasses and sunglasses collection is the quintessential maker of fashion accessories, unabashed in its display of Swarovski crystals, metal plate intaglios, bold logos, and elaborate surfaces. There are very few hints of classicism in the collection; instead Versace goes where few eyewear designers can go, and the breadth of beauty and creativity in the line is truly awesome.
Old Line, But New Fashion
Versace is not an old line Italian fashion house, and its designs thumb their nose at those centuries of history. Founded by
Gianni Versace in 1978, the company is a babe in the woods compared to its Italian neighbors. Yet, it is difficult not to respect what Versace has achieved with its art in a few short years, and is currently valued at well over $1 billion. It is a shame that Gianni Versace passed to his other world in 1997, leaving the company to his sister Donatella Versace. He designed costumes for an interesting list of celebrities, including Eric Clapton, Madonna,
Elton John, Diana Prince of Wales, Cher, Sting, Naomi Campbell, and many more. He was strongly influenced by Greek history (as is readily evident by the company’s logo).