For the Spring-Summer 2024 Collection, Donatella Versace honors an iconic moment when fashion and culture became a catalyst for technological progress. The exploration of couture techniques and novel materials has always been signature to the Versace runway. Twenty years ago, that spirit of innovation emanated from Milan to the Hollywood red carpet, and ultimately, Silicon Valley.
Debuting in the Spring-Summer 2000 Collection, the Jungle print dress made multiple appearances on the red carpet. At the 2000 Grammy Awards, Jennifer Lopez garnered international attention when she wore the unique runway design. Millions of people took to the internet to see Jennifer in the legendary dress, making it one the most popular search queries for Google at the time. However, the desired results – an image of the star and the gown – were not able to be surfaced on the search page. The epic red-carpet look, and the excitement it created, inspired the team to create Google Images.
“It was amazing! The world had the same reaction: jaw dropping. Today we live in a technological world, but back then, one event prompted the creation of a new tool that now has become part of our lives.” Donatella Versace
To celebrate its 20th anniversary, the Jungle print is reprised on the Versace runway in tropical green and fire orange-pink palettes. Presented in its original version, the palm trees are juxtaposed with different treatments and fabrications. The motif is depicted on metal mesh, embellished with crystals or complemented with tie-dye. Shirts adorned with Jungle details are layered under corset bodices with graphic heart-shaped, heritage necklines. The pattern is also introduced on Squalo sneakers and beaded as a three-dimensional décor on Virtus handbags.
Volume, layering and intricate décolletage cuts redefine the iconic black Versace dress. Drawing inspiration from Atelier creations, sharp geometric lines add character to a series of opening looks in black. Form-fitting silhouettes are paired with gold-tone hardware and delicate lace-up sandals embellished with leather leaf accents. Strong shoulders characterize tailored blazers, coats and crystal-enriched shirts. The sculptured shapes are accentuated by slim waistlines and voluminous skirts creating a strong, feminine figure.
Statement pieces are complemented with innovative tie-dye materials. The pioneering technique is applied to leather, creating a unique marble effect in acid hues. The multi-color pattern is featured on a leather coat and jersey t-shirts boasting the emblematic Medusa logo or Gianni Versace signature. Representing the intersection between the House’s aesthetic and forward-looking approach, tie-dye is fused with classic Prince of Wales on tailored separates. Strappy sandals with a smoked plexiglass heel and micro crystal mesh bags complement runway looks.
This season Versace and Google collaborate to celebrate twenty years of the legendary moment in both fashion and Google history. The amalgamation between technology, classicism and fashion is evident throughout the runway space featuring a Pantheon-inspired ceiling and a bronze palm sculpture surrounded by digital art projections. Created with Google Tilt Brush technology, the artwork portrays the iconic print designed by Donatella Versace. Passionate for constant innovation, the brand’s Chief Creative Officer uses the latest technology – the Google Assistant – to call for the Jungle dress’ appearance on the runway, creating yet another unforgettable, Google-worthy Versace moment.
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