Pieter Mulier will lead Atelier Versace's first couture runway show since 2016 after Nicole Kidman debuted his first gown for the fashion house Photo credit: INSTAGRAM/Pieter Mulier

Versace is preparing to return its couture creations to the runway in January 2027, with new chief creative officer Pieter Mulier expected to unveil his debut Atelier Versace collection. The planned presentation follows Nicole Kidman's appearance in the first publicly revealed gown designed by Mulier for the Italian fashion house, offering an early glimpse of his approach to the label.

The show is expected to take place during Paris Haute Couture Week, scheduled for January 25 to 28, 2027. It would mark a significant moment for Versace following its acquisition by Prada Group in December 2025. According to Women's Wear Daily, the house has confirmed plans for the presentation, although the exact date and venue have yet to be announced.

Versace prepares for its couture runway return under Pieter Mulier following Nicole Kidman's debut in his design

Atelier Versace Prepares for Its Runway Return

The planned presentation would mark a return to the couture runway following Atelier Versace's July 2016 Fall couture show, subject to confirmation of whether subsequent collections were presented on the runway. The house has maintained its couture presence through private orders and high-profile red-carpet appearances, with Kidman's recent look providing an early showcase of Mulier's work.

The presentation would also mark a new creative chapter for the fashion house, which has undergone significant leadership changes in recent years. Mulier officially began his role as chief creative officer on 1 July 2026, after being appointed to the position in February.

The Belgian designer previously served as creative director of Alaïa, where he developed a reputation for sculptural silhouettes and designs that emphasised the human form. His experience at the house provides a point of reference for fashion watchers eager to see how he approaches Versace's distinctive aesthetic, known for its bold glamour, sensuality and craftsmanship.

Nicole Kidman Debuted Mulier's First Versace Design

Kidman offered the first public glimpse of Mulier's work for Atelier Versace when she attended the Los Angeles premiere of Practical Magic 2 on 31 August 2026. The actress wore an asymmetric black lace gown designed by Mulier, making her appearance an early showcase of his work for the Italian fashion house.

Nicole Kidman wears Versace Atelier by Pieter Mulier at the Practical Magic 2 Premiere in LA

The look arrived months before the planned couture runway debut, giving Versace an opportunity to introduce Mulier's work through one of Hollywood's most recognisable stars. Kidman's appearance also connected the brand's established red-carpet presence with its anticipated return to the couture runway.

Rather than presenting an entire collection, the gown offered an early indication of how Mulier might interpret the house's signature glamour under his leadership. His January debut is expected to provide a more comprehensive view of that approach, including how he balances Versace's established identity with his own creative perspective.

Versace Enters a New Era Under Prada Group

The couture announcement comes as Versace continues its transition under Prada Group, which completed its acquisition of the fashion house from Capri Holdings on 2 December 2025. The deal brought Versace into the same luxury group as Prada and Miu Miu, marking a new chapter for the Italian label after years under different ownership.

Prada Group reports growth in the first nine months of 2026

Prada Group has expressed confidence that Mulier can develop Versace's potential while engaging with the fashion house's heritage. In announcing his appointment, executive chairman Lorenzo Bertelli said the group believed Mulier could unlock the label's potential and engage in a fruitful dialogue with its legacy.