Versus is back

Versace’s second line is set for a revival.

Versus is back! Versace has announced that its defunct second line is to be resuscitated for spring 2010. Launched in 1989 by the late Gianni Versace, the line was under the creative direction of his sister Donatella when he was murdered in 1997. Donatella took over as creative director of the company after his death. 

Versus was to Versace what Miu Miu is to Prada, or D&G to Dolce & Gabbana, and was a big part of the brand's heyday, with fashion shows and ad campaigns featuring supermodels such as Claudia Schiffer and Milla Jovovich, pictured. It was closed when the company decided to downsize, although its perfume and sunglasses continued to retail.

Now, despite the recession, the company has decided it is time to bring the line back, with a clothing collection designed by Donatella set to show for spring/summer 2010, and several of its own stores. A capsule collection of Versus accessories will go on show this week during Milan Fashion Week. According to Versace CEO Giancarlo Di Risio, the new project will allow Versus to "grow substantially and make its mark as the new face in the world of urban luxury."

Picture: Milla Jovovich in an old Versus ad