L'HISTOIRE: Donatella Versace's Animal Print Gown at the 1996 VH1 Fashion Awards
This animal print ensemble is a defining look of her '90s style, and it captures the bold, glamorous spirit of the Italian fashion house.
L’HISTOIRE explores fashion history moments you should know, from what actors wore on a red carpet to celebrities who made cameos on the runway. Some are unsung, and some are better known. Each is part of the fabric of today’s fashion world, be it barrier breakers or culture makers.
By now, we’re all well-acquainted with the pomp and circumstance of the British Fashion Awards, the CFDAs, and the Met Gala. But in the late ‘90s and early 2000s, VH1 brought its own spin to the fashion calendar with the VH1 Fashion Awards. Airing annually from 1995 to 2001, the ceremony honored trailblazers in the fashion industry, recognizing their exceptional contributions. The event celebrated the intersection of fashion, pop culture, and celebrity influence, with awards spotlighting achievements in design, modeling, and style. In 1996, one Donatella Versace was among the night’s notable attendees.
The Italian designer donned a two-toned gown that grazed the floor, featuring animal print that started at her hips and cascaded down. Versace clutched a black fur stole at the chest to finish off her ensemble and contrast the skirt's marigold hue. On her feet were matching strappy animal print heels peeking out as she walked. Her gown straps were adorned with eye-catching crystals that complemented her four diamond rings. For makeup, she went the full-glam route with a silver eyeshadow and a nude glossy lip.
In hindsight, though this is one of her lesser-known looks from the pivotal decade, it feels like a quiet foreshadowing of her visionary career. When tragedy struck the following year, after Gianni Versace’s untimely death, Donatella faced insurmountable grief and the immense pressure to uphold Gianni’s legendary legacy as the label's new creative director. Yet, nearly 30 years later, she has not only kept the Versace name alive but redefined it.
To recreate Versace’s ensemble, go for a floor-sweeping dress like this leopard print number by Lovers and Friends. A pair of animal print heels would go perfectly with the dress, like Raye’s slip-on leopard print mules. Finish off by wrapping a black fur shawl around your shoulders, like Nour Hammour’s. For beauty, apply a silver eye and glossy nude lip. When you sport this look, make sure you channel that trademark Versace poise and joie de vivre.
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