For the Spring-Summer 2020 Collection, Donatella Versace honors an iconic moment when fashion
and culture became a catalyst for technological progress. The exploration of couture techniques and
novel materials has always been signature to the Versace runway. Twenty years ago, that spirit of
innovation emanated from Milan to the Hollywood red carpet, and ultimately, Silicon Valley.
Debuting in the Spring-Summer 2000 Collection, the Jungle print dress made multiple appearances
on the red carpet. At the 2000 Grammy Awards, Jennifer Lopez garnered international attention
when she wore the unique runway design. Millions of people took to the internet to see Jennifer in
the legendary dress, making it one the most popular search queries for Google at the time.
However, the desired results – an image of the star and the gown – were not able to be surfaced on
the search page. The epic red-carpet look, and the excitement it created, inspired the team to
create Google Images.
“It was amazing! The world had the same reaction: jaw dropping. Today we live in a technological world,
but back then, one event prompted the creation of a new tool that now has become part of our lives.”
– Donatella Versace –
To celebrate its 20th anniversary, the Jungle print is reprised on the Versace runway in tropical green
and fire orange-pink palettes. Presented in its original version, the palm trees are juxtaposed with
different treatments and fabrications. The motif is depicted on metal mesh, embellished with crystals
or complemented with tie-dye. Shirts adorned with Jungle details are layered under corset bodices
with graphic heart-shaped, heritage necklines. The pattern is also introduced on Squalo sneakers and
beaded as a three-dimensional décor on Virtus handbags.
Volume, layering and intricate décolletage cuts redefine the iconic black Versace dress. Drawing
inspiration from Atelier creations, sharp geometric lines add character to a series of opening looks
in black. Form-fitting silhouettes are paired with gold-tone hardware and delicate lace-up sandals
embellished with leather leaf accents. Strong shoulders characterize tailored blazers, coats and
crystal-enriched shirts. The sculptured shapes are accentuated by slim waistlines and voluminous
skirts creating a strong, feminine figure.
Statement pieces are complemented with innovative tie-dye materials. The pioneering technique is
applied to leather, creating a unique marble effect in acid hues. The multi-color pattern is featured
on a leather coat and on jersey t-shirts, boasting the emblematic Medusa logo or Gianni Versace
signature. Representing the intersection between the House’s aesthetic and forward-looking
approach, tie-dye is fused with classic Prince of Wales on tailored separates. Strappy sandals with a
smoked plexiglass heel and micro crystal mesh bags complement the runway looks.
This season Versace and Google collaborate to celebrate twenty years of the legendary moment in
both fashion and Google history. The amalgamation between technology, classicism and fashion is
evident throughout the runway space featuring a Pantheon-inspired ceiling and a bronze palm
sculpture surrounded by digital art projections. Created with Google Tilt Brush technology, the
artwork portrays the iconic print designed by Donatella Versace. Passionate for constant innovation,
the brand’s Chief Creative Officer uses the latest technology – the Google Assistant – to call for the
Jungle dress’ appearance on the runway, creating yet another unforgettable, Google-worthy Versace
moment.
Jonak GMBH
