Subversive, maximalist and unabashedly seductive, Gianni Versace’s (1946–97) designs infused high fashion with an entirely new ethos. “I don’t believe in good taste,” the legendary Italian couturier once explained. Instead, he had a sexy good time with fashion — as he did with life.
Today, vintage Versace clothing, handbags and other accessories look astonishingly fresh and freshly relevant. The designer debuted his Atelier Versace line — which was part of the first Versace haute couture collection — in 1989.
More than any designer before him, Versace mined celebrity, music and Pop art for inspiration. In fact, the New York Times noted in 1997 that the fashion industry “is now driven by contemporary culture because Mr. Versace made it that way.”
Insiders consider his 1991/1992 Autumn/Winter runway show — which featured supermodels Christy Turlington, Cindy Crawford, Naomi Campbell and Linda Evangelista lip-synching George Michael’s “Freedom! '90” — the moment when the two worlds of fashion and pop culture became one, changing both forever.
Versace was born in Reggio di Calabria, Italy. His mother was a successful dressmaker who employed more than 40 seamstresses. As a child, little Gianni marveled at her workshop, which would become a university of sorts, where he learned the exceptional construction techniques that were at the foundation of his creative expression.
In 1972, at age 25, Versace moved to Milan to work in fashion. He launched his first collection — and his label — in 1978, with his older brother Santo managing the business concerns. Soon, sister Donatella, whom Gianni dressed and took to discos when she was still a child, joined the family venture, where she had a creative role and managed enormously popular ready-to-wear lines such as Versus.
Vintage Versace — and 1989's Gianni Versace Couture — has become catnip for modern fashion enthusiasts who seek out the now-iconic house codes that originated in the designs of the 1980s and 1990s. His glamorous and seductive apparel — the clingy skirts and slender, strappy party dresses, as well as the erotic magazine ads that publicized them — looms large, but Versace’s art and historical influences were also vast.
Versace was an art collector, and he took on commissions to create costumes for theatrical performances during the 1980s and spoke of looking to numerous cultures for inspiration. This adventurous spirit of design resulted in his creating jewel-toned prints rooted in Grecian motifs, Etruscan symbols, the Italian Baroque and Andy Warholʼs Marilyn Monroe. There were slinky dresses in Oroton, his patented chain-mail textile that draped like satin, and leather bondage ensembles. Sex sold, for both women and men. Wrote the late curator Richard Martin, “[Versace] became the standard-bearer of gay men’s fashion because he eschewed decorum and designed for desire.”
Following Versace’s tragic murder in 1997, Donatella took over the role of artistic director and continued to evolve the house codes with a twist of her feminine and feminist perspective. Today, Santo Versace is chief executive officer of Versace and Donatella is its chief creative officer.
Browse an extraordinary collection of vintage Gianni Versace Couture bags, dresses and more on 1stDibs.
Gianni Versace Couture "Miami" Multicolor Print Mini Tote Bag circa 1993
By Gianni Versace Couture
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
The Gianni Versace Couture "Miami" Multicolor Print Mini Tote Bag from circa 1993 is a striking example of early 90s high fashion, showcasing vibrant, bold hues and intricate graphic...
1990s Gianni Versace Couture Red Embossed Leather Medusa Large Tote Bag
By Gianni Versace, Gianni Versace Couture
Located in West Hollywood, CA
This vibrant red crocodile-embossed Gianni Versace top-handle bag, designed in the 1990s. Constructed of bright red leather, it prominently features a gold-tone Medusa at the front a...
1990s Gianni Versace Black Nylon Medusa Embroidered Drawstring Tote
By Gianni Versace, Gianni Versace Couture
Located in West Hollywood, CA
From the 1990s, this black nylon Gianni Versace tote showcases a large embroidered Versace Medusa on the front. It is accented with gold-tone Versace Medusa reliefs at the base of ea...
S/S 1993 Gianni Versace Couture Striped Medusa Medallion Canvas Tote Runway
By Gianni Versace, Gianni Versace Couture
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Presenting an iconic runway Gianni Versace Couture tote designed by Gianni Versace. From the Spring/Summer 1993 collection, the bag's bold stripe print was used on the runway in mult...
S/S 1992 Gianni Versace Leopard Print Shoulder Bag Gold Medusa Medallion
By Gianni Versace, Gianni Versace Couture
Located in West Hollywood, CA
This Gianni Versace shoulder bag from the Spring/Summer 1992 collection is crafted in leopard-print fabric with structured rectangular shaping. It features a prominent gold-tone Medu...
Gianni Versace Couture Miami Tasche Vintage beach print 1993
By Gianni Versace, Gianni Versace Couture
Located in 10707, DE
Gianni Versace Miami large silk shoulder bag from 1993 with Medusa medallions, South Beach Miami print of tropical vintage ocean front themes can be seen throughout with pop art Miami...
Chanel Resort Summer Denim Diamond Stitch Fringe Beach Shopping Tote
By Chanel
Located in Miami, FL
Chanel Beach Shopping Tote Bag Pool Resort Fringe Large Travel Shoulder Bag Canvas diamond stitch exterior with fringe detail CC embroidery...
$8,920
H 8 in W 8 in D 3 in
Chanel 1994 Rare Vintage Mini Multi Six CC Logo Crossbody Lambskin Tote Bag
By Chanel
Located in Miami, FL
Chanel 1994 Rare Vintage Mini Multi Six CC Logo Crossbody Lambskin Tote Bag 1991-1994 {VINTAGE 30 Years} Gold Hardware Long strap with classic interwoven chain Drawstring closure Do...
Vintage Louis Vuitton Limited Edition Toile Globe Shopper Tote Bag
By Louis Vuitton
Located in Houston, TX
Brand: Louis Vuitton Measurements: (W x H x D): 11.25" x 10.50" x 3.50" Total Weight: 650.50 grams Vintage toile globe shopper tote bag. Stamped "Made In France". The "Louis Vu...
Gucci Ophidia Cloth Cut Out XL Tote
By Gucci
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Introducing the Gucci Ophidia Cloth Cut Out XL Tote – A Masterpiece of Elegance! Are you ready to make a bold fashion statement? Look no further than this stunning Gucci Ophidia Cloth Cut Out XL Tote. This large multicolor monogram tote bag is a collector's dream, featuring intricate floral embroidery, and it's part of the exclusive 2016 Collection. The bag is made of beige GG Supreme coated canvas adorned with a striking blue floral print. What sets it apart are the intricate multicolored embroidery, featuring birds, bees, and flowers on the front. These unique elements make this tote a true work of art. This XL tote offers flexibility in how you carry it. It comes with two sturdy top handles for a classic hand-held look and an adjustable shoulder strap in dark green leather. Wear it as a shoulder bag or crossbody to suit your style. The antique silver hardware adds a touch of vintage charm to this contemporary masterpiece. It complements the bag's overall aesthetic and durability. Open the bag, and you'll find a spacious main compartment lined with beige suede, adding a touch of luxury to your everyday life. The generous interior space ensures you can carry your essentials and more with ease. The bag is not just a tote; it's a canvas of artistry. The bee, phoenix, and gold cloud embroideries give it a mystical, whimsical touch that's hard to find anywhere else. Now, imagine carrying this remarkable piece of fashion on your arm. Whether you're heading to a social event, a day at the office, or just a casual outing, this Gucci Ophidia Cut-Out XL Tote will set you apart from the crowd. Style this with a Chanel dress, an Hermes silk scarf and a Prada bucket hat...
Hermes Silky City Bag Printed Silk and Leather PM
By Hermès
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
There is nothing quite like this amazing handbag! This handbag has an electric blue hue that will bring an unexpected flair to any ensemble. This is an authentic Hermès Silk City 33 bag from the year 2011! The body of the bag is featured in a ultra soft silk material complimented by a white leather strap. Make sure to zoom in to admire the cool details of this bag like the pleated ends of the straps and the cool horse print. It has silver hardware and a completely adjustable strap. It comes with an adorable detachable silk pouch on the interior. There are small traces of wear on the corners visible in the photos and the silk is slightly snagged in one place. Pair this amazing Hermes with a pair of grey Bottega Veneta trousers, a Prada white tank top...
Chanel 2007 Modern Thick Chunky Chain Soft Lamb Hobo Slouchy Tote
By Chanel
Located in Miami, FL
Chanel soft lambskin leather hobo with chunky chain handle. 2007 {VINTAGE 15 Years} Silver hardware Soft supple lambskin leather Thick chunky cha...
Panier bag Galop Beach Hermès
Located in Carnate, IT
Galop Beach pannier tote bag Hermès 2012 collection. Fantasy Horses and Jockeys. In multicolored cotton. Top snap closure. Beige leather bottom edges. Black cotton top handles. Insid...
Chanel Shopping Tote Duffle Cc Sport Line Beige Nylon
By Chanel
Located in Miami, FL
Very good. Small marks on base and handles, slight discoloration and wear in interior, scratches on hardware. Accessories: Authenticity Card, Dust Bag Measurements: Handle Drop 8-14...
Goyard Goyardine Ltd Edition Net Aligre Raffia Mesh Tote Bag
By Goyard
Located in London, GB
We Adore - Goyard Goyardine Ltd Edition Net Aligre Raffia Mesh Tote Bag Hand‑braided beige raffia mesh body framed by wooden rods, topped with the iconic Goyardine coated canvas fla...
Chanel 1997 Vintage Timeless Logo Letters Shopper XL Tote Bag
By Chanel
Located in Miami, FL
CHANEL Logo Canvas Tote 1997 {VINTAGE 25 Years} Gold hardware CC logo hardware details Two large front pockets Interior black lambskin lining Large interior center zippered pocket F...
UNWORN Zagliani Cranberry Color Exotic Snake Skin Shoulder Bag
By Zagliani
Located in Switzerland, CH
Stunning Exotic Skin Shoulder Bag by Zagliani - a timeless classic! Rare piece from a limited collection - sold out worldwide Made of finest exotic snake skin, treated and famous for...
HERMES Sesame Swift leather & Toile Viking canvas 24/24-35 Bag Ghw
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Hermès 24/24-35 bag in ecru-beige Toile H Viking with Sesame (beige) Veau Swift leather trims. Features an open pocket on the outside back. Closes with a gold-plated t...
Gianni Versace Vintage 1991 Andy Warhol Blue Beaded Metal Handle Bag
By Gianni Versace Couture
Located in Rome, Rome
Beautiful vintage rare Gianni Versace tote with metal beaded handles. From the 1991 Andy Warhol collection. It features gold metal top handles with multicolored beads. Blue textured ...
Sold
H 3.75 in W 3.75 in L 10 in
Versace Couture Absolut Bottle Bag Leather Mini Tote Limited Edition + Box 1997
By Gianni Versace, Gianni Versace Couture
Located in Port Saint Lucie, FL
For the true Versace collector! This incredible mini tote was made by Versace Couture for the Absolut Versace ad campaign in 1997. Made from supple wh...
Gianni Versace Vintage 1991 Andy Warhol Blue Beaded Metal Handle Bag
By Gianni Versace Couture
Located in Rome, Rome
Beautiful vintage rare Gianni Versace tote with metal beaded handles. From the 1991 Andy Warhol collection. It features gold metal top handles w...
1990s Gianni Versace Couture Large Gold Medusa Medallion Chain Leather Bag
By Gianni Versace, Gianni Versace Couture
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Presenting a classically Gianni Versace Couture purse designed by Gianni Versace. Created in the early/mid 1990s, this bag is constructed entirely of black leather and features a border of small Medusa logo medallions with a large gold-colored Greek key chain...
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H 8.25 in W 13.5 in D 5 in
1990s Gianni Versace Couture Gold Medusa Stud Black Leather Flap Shoulder Bag
By Gianni Versace, Gianni Versace Couture
Located in West Hollywood, CA
TheRealList presents: a classically Gianni Versace Couture purse, designed by Gianni Versace. Created in the early/mid 1990s, this bag constructed entirely of black leather and featu...
F/W 1992 Gianni Versace 'Miss S&M' Croc Embossed Medusa Medallion Dome Bag
By Gianni Versace, Gianni Versace Couture
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Presenting an embossed patent leather dome bag by Gianni Versace. This piece was released as part of Versace's iconic 'Miss S&M' F/W 1992 collection, famous for its bondage-inspired ...
Gianni Versace Couture Black Velvet Tote Bag
By Gianni Versace Couture
Located in Milano, IT
Beautiful black velvet tote bag signed Gianni Versace Couture 1990s. The outside of the bag is made of black velvet worked, two long and particular handles...