Versace is returning to the haute couture runway after more than a decade away, with new chief creative officer Pieter Mulier set to unveil his first collection for the Italian fashion house in January 2027. Atelier Versace last staged a dedicated couture runway show in July 2016, making the upcoming presentation its first in more than 10 years. The comeback will take place during Paris Haute Couture Week, scheduled to run from 25 to 28 January 2027.
The announcement marks Mulier's first major runway presentation for Versace since his appointment as creative chief. The fashion house confirmed the return in a statement, saying the 'date and venue will be announced in due course'. Atelier Versace has continued to produce couture creations for private clients and high-profile red-carpet appearances during its absence from the runway.
Atelier Versace Returns to the Runway
Atelier Versace last held a dedicated couture runway show in July 2016 before stepping away from the official Paris couture schedule. The label did not abandon its couture business, continuing to create exclusive pieces through private commissions and dress celebrities for major red-carpet events. Its January 2027 presentation will mark its first dedicated couture runway show since that 2016 outing.
Founded by Gianni Versace in 1978, the Italian fashion house became known for its daring prints, plunging necklines, figure-hugging silhouettes and extravagant eveningwear. The Atelier Versace line takes those signatures into couture, with elaborate gowns, intricate embellishments and dramatic designs. Its return will bring the label's most exclusive creations back to the Paris runway.
The announcement comes after Prada Group completed its acquisition of Versace from Capri Holdings on 2 December 2025. The deal brought the fashion house into the same luxury group as Prada and Miu Miu, ending its ownership under Capri Holdings. The takeover was followed by further changes to Versace's creative leadership.
Pieter Mulier Prepares Versace Debut
Mulier was appointed chief creative officer of Versace on 5 February 2026, with his appointment taking effect on 1 July 2026. He joined from Alaïa, where he had served as creative director since 2021 and became known for sculptural tailoring, sharply cut silhouettes and architectural designs. His first Atelier Versace collection will mark his debut in the role.
His appointment followed Donatella Versace's decision to step down as creative director, announced in March 2025, after nearly three decades leading the brand. She had taken charge of the fashion house's creative direction following the death of her brother, founder Gianni Versace. Dario Vitale was subsequently appointed to succeed her, but his departure was announced in December 2025 after only a brief tenure.
Before joining Alaïa, Mulier worked alongside designer Raf Simons and held positions at Jil Sander, Christian Dior and Calvin Klein. At Versace, he will be taking on a fashion house known for its bold prints, sensual designs and unmistakable glamour. His first couture collection will reveal how he approaches those established signatures.
Lorenzo Bertelli, Versace's executive chairman, expressed confidence in Mulier when the appointment was announced. 'When we considered the Versace acquisition, we identified Pieter Mulier as the right person for the brand', he said, adding that the group believed he could 'unlock Versace's full potential' while engaging with its strong legacy. The exact date and venue of the January 2027 presentation have yet to be announced.
