Model sisters Gigi and Bella Hadid, who have both been longtime muses for the brand, shared heartfelt messages reflecting on their experiences with Donatella.

“Working with Versace in the era of Donatella will forever be one of the greatest highlights of my career. What is more of a life’s honor is saying that I know and love this Super Woman. There is warmth, strength, gentleness, humor, generosity, encouragement, loyalty, and magic to @donatella_versace that I feel so lucky to have experienced from this boss and icon,” Gigi wrote in her post.

Gigi went on to thank Donatella for supporting her for over a decade, sharing that working with her made her feel empowered.

“I became a woman working for this woman. Some of the moments I’ve felt the most empowered, confident, and beautiful are because of her. I’ll never forget that” Gigi added.

“DV- you know I love you so much. Thank you for everything, and for all you have given the world. I will always cherish my time wearing your creations, but the memories continue:) x x 4ever your girl.”

Bella Hadid echoed her sister’s sentiments, emphasizing Donatella’s lasting impact on the fashion industry.

“I LOVE YOU DV. OUR TIME TOGETHER WILL BE MEMORIES I AM BURIED WITH. THE FIRST TIME I TRULY FELT BEAUTIFUL IN OUR INDUSTRY. YOU,” Bella expressed.

She went on: “THANK YOU FOR BEING FASHION MOTHER TO US ALL. FOR MAKING US FEEL LOVED. BEAUTIFUL. UNIQUE. SEXY. HAPPY. YOU ARE THE 1. THE ONLY. THE DONATELLA VERSACE 💜”

Actress and singer Jennifer Lopez also shared a touching message, highlighting Donatella’s resilience and honoring her late brother, Gianni Versace, the brand’s founder.

“What a journey you have been on. You are strong, resilient, powerful, talented and I am so happy that I have gotten to know you over the years. Together, our journey and the friendship that we have formed has been incredible,” JLo said.

“I know this next chapter will be filled with love, happiness and friendship…and whatever you want to create it to be. I am always here for you… @donatella_versace 💚💚,” she added.

Model and actress Emily Ratajkowski also expressed her gratitude working with the fashion legend.

“THEE DONATELLA 💜 thank you for welcoming me into the fashion world and for being a friend and supporter through so many different moments of my life and career. what an honor to have been a @versace woman in the @donatella_versace era. forever grateful. Ily!” she wrote.

American model Precious Lee also shared her appreciation, posting, “I will never forget the moment I landed in Milan to meet you. The moment I first walked for you. The smile you gave. The love you showed! Your aura! Legendary. You embraced me and welcomed me into the family of the house and stamped me as a Versace Girl. Epic. Magical.”

“I love you Donatella♥️VERSACE FOREVER🤞🏾✨🌹THANK YOU🙏🏾,” she added.

On March 13, after nearly 30 years at the helm of the luxury brand, Donatella Versace announced her decision to step down as creative director.

Her position will be taken over by Dario Vitale, who was previously the design director at Miu Miu under the Prada Group.

“I am thrilled that Dario Vitale will be joining us, and excited to see Versace through new eyes. I want to thank my incredible design team and all the employees at Versace that I have had the privilege of working with for over three decades,” said Donatella in a post in the brand’s social media.

Although stepping down from her creative role, Donatella will remain closely tied to the brand as its Chief Brand Ambassador.

 “In my new role as Chief Brand Ambassador, I will remain Versace’s most passionate supporter. Versace is in my DNA and always in my heart.”

Following her announcement, Donatella expressed gratitude for the overwhelming love and support she received.

“Thank you so much for all the love I have received from friends, family and those that have followed me on my journey so far! I love and appreciate every single one of you 😘✨🥰,” she wrote.