Arts & Entertainment
Michael Kors’ acquisition of Versace causes fashion fans to break down
The deal left some people confused
Versace storefront. (Photo via Wikimedia Commons)
Clothing and accessories brand Michael Kors announced it is buying luxury brand Versace, which was founded by Gianni Versace in 1978, for approximately $2.12 billion on Tuesday.
The announcement came as a shock for Versace fans who felt the two brands were radically different. Michael Kors is an American fashion house known for its affordability in its handbags, jewelry, watches and sportswear. Meanwhile, Versace is an Italian fashion house with high-end, luxury items.
Kors is expected to open 100 new Versace stores and hopes to build Versace’s online shopping presence. There will also be more focus on selling shoes and accessories.
“It has been more than 20 years since I took over the company along with my brother Santo and daughter Allegra,” Donatella Versace said in a press release. “I am proud that Versace remains very strong in both fashion and modern culture.”
Michael Kors Holdings Limited will change its name to Capri Holdings Limited. The Versace family will receive an estimated $177 million in the new company.
Donatella Versace will still be on board as creative director. However, Versace fans were devastated by the news.
Why is Donatella selling Versace…. to Michael Kors….
The brand about to go from high end luxury to TJ Maxx & Walmart. pic.twitter.com/kGSbkaJNq6
— BabyBoy 10/5? (@Drebae_) September 24, 2018
Gianni Verace would never sign his brand to Michael Kors if he was still living. As a huge Versace fan this bothers me. 2 billion ain’t enough for that brand and to let them take over a legacy smh I’m tight @Versace ??
— David Ball (@king_david_b) September 25, 2018
Gianni Versace didn’t die for his ICONIC brand to be sold to some cheap & tacky designer who is the epitome of locals knowledge on designer brands & whos bags u can’t even tell the difference between the fakes they sell in turkey, this is the end of Versace. I’m so disappointed https://t.co/yRu3U6B0Ik
— ً (@cokelagerfeld) September 24, 2018
Gianni Versace rn pic.twitter.com/TMtwudqIPj
— carmen kass stan (@snejanahatesfgs) September 24, 2018
“Michael Kors is reportedly set to buy Versace for $2 billion this week” Gianni Versace sweetie, I’m so sorry
— femme fatale (@eliesaaab) September 24, 2018
I’m really sad about Versace being bought by Michael Kors. I feel like the brand should be perpetrated by Donatella and stayed an Italian house. We all saw what americans have done to european houses when they were given the creative direction and it should’ve been a lesson.
— gmoney ⚡️ (@SahelianBeaauty) September 25, 2018
Out & About
Blade Summer Kickoff Party returns to Rehoboth
Politicians slated to speak at annual Blue Moon party
The Washington Blade’s 17th annual Summer Kickoff Party returns Friday, May 17, 5-7 p.m. at the Blue Moon (35 Baltimore Ave.) in Rehoboth Beach, Del.
It’s an exciting election year in Delaware, which is poised to elect its first Black woman senator (Lisa Blunt Rochester) and the nation’s first transgender member of Congress (Sarah McBride).
McBride is scheduled to speak at the party along with several politicos from the area. With the retirement of longtime state Rep. Peter C. Schwartzkopf, a staunch LGBTQ ally, three strong contenders are running to replace him. All three — Marty Rendon, Kathy McGuiness, and Claire Snyder-Hall — are slated to speak at the party. A representative from Blunt Rochester’s campaign is scheduled to speak, along with Kim Leisey, the new executive director of CAMP Rehoboth.
Tax-deductible tickets are $20 and available on Eventbrite or via the Blade’s Facebook page. The party is sponsored by Justin Noble of Sotheby’s, The Avenue Inn & Spa, and Blue Moon.
Andy Cohen, executive producer of “The Real Housewives” franchise and host of “Watch What Happens Live,” will return to Sixth & I on Wednesday, May 8 at 7:30 p.m.
This event will be his fifth appearance at the venue to celebrate the paperback release of his New York Times bestselling memoir, “The Daddy Diaries,” talk about the latest Housewives happenings, and answer audience questions about everyone’s favorite Bravolebrities.
Cohen will be in conversation with Rep. Robert Garcia, who represents California and is the first LGBTQ immigrant to win a congressional seat. Rep. Garcia has also been known to quote from “The Real Housewives” in congressional hearings.
Tickets start at $12 and can be purchased on Eventbrite.
“Herses- Purse Frist Extravaganza” will be on Friday, May 3 at 9 p.m. at 1835 14th St. N.W. This will be an evening of dancing and performances, hosted by HAUS of Bambi Award-winning Performance Artist, BUMPER. Refreshments are also available for purchase.
Tickets are $10 and can be purchased on Eventbrite.
Blade Summer Kickoff Party returns to Rehoboth
Andy Cohen coming to D.C.
Want to dance for a good cause?
Calendar: May 3-9
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