“Gianni Would Be So Proud”: JLo Honors Donatella Versace in Emotional Farewell

Jennifer Lopez is celebrating a true icon as Donatella Versace steps down from her role as chief creative officer of the renowned fashion house. The pop superstar and longtime friend of Donatella took a moment to share a touching tribute to the legendary designer, acknowledging her remarkable legacy and the deep bond they have forged over the years.

“Gianni would be so proud,” Lopez wrote, reflecting on Donatella’s journey as she took over the Versace brand following the tragic passing of her brother, Gianni Versace, in 1997. Lopez went on to highlight Donatella’s strength, resilience, and exceptional talent: “What a journey you have been on. You are strong, resilient, powerful, and talented, and I am so happy that I have gotten to know you over the years.”

The friendship between Lopez and Donatella is nothing short of iconic, with the two collaborating on some of the most memorable moments in fashion history. Lopez shared some of their most significant milestones, saying, “Together, our journey and the friendship that we have formed has been incredible. I know this next chapter will be filled with love, happiness, and friendship… and whatever you want to create it to be. I am always here for you.”

Of course, one of the most famous moments in Lopez and Versace’s shared history is the creation of the unforgettable green jungle-print dress that Lopez wore to the 2000 Grammys. The dress became an instant cultural phenomenon, so iconic that it famously led to the creation of Google Images, as millions searched for pictures of the stunning look online.

Their bond was further cemented in 2019 when Lopez closed Versace’s runway show in a jaw-dropping updated version of the same dress. It was a stunning tribute to the enduring power of their collaboration and the continued influence of Donatella’s design genius.

The mutual admiration between Lopez and Donatella is clear, with the designer often praising Lopez’s strength and work ethic. In an interview for Lopez’s InStyle cover story, Donatella called the “Jenny from the Block” singer “limitless.” She elaborated, saying, “It describes her perfectly. Her discipline, her courage, her resilience, her hard work, her intelligence… rarely have I met someone who had a dream and worked so hard to achieve it. When you are in the same room with Jennifer, you can almost feel her energy pulsating through her veins and filling the space around her. I love her with all my heart.”

As Donatella embarks on the next chapter of her life, Jennifer Lopez’s heartfelt tribute serves as a beautiful reminder of the deep respect and admiration between the two. Their journey together will undoubtedly remain an indelible part of fashion history, defined by their remarkable collaboration, friendship, and the lasting impact they’ve had on both the fashion world and popular culture.