Versace Taps Trans Star Dylan Mulvaney to Promote Women’s Collection

In a bold and progressive move, luxury fashion house Versace has announced transgender actress and influencer Dylan Mulvaney as the face of its latest women’s collection. The decision, revealed on May 10, 2025, marks a significant moment in the brand’s history, signaling its commitment to inclusivity and diversity in the high-fashion world.

A New Face for Versace

Dylan Mulvaney, known for her vibrant social media presence and advocacy for transgender rights, rose to prominence through her candid and engaging content documenting her transition. With millions of followers across platforms like TikTok and Instagram, Mulvaney has become a cultural icon, celebrated for her authenticity and charisma. Versace’s choice to feature her in its women’s collection campaign underscores the brand’s intent to resonate with a younger, more diverse audience.

The campaign, which showcases Mulvaney in Versace’s Spring/Summer 2025 women’s line, highlights the collection’s signature bold prints, tailored silhouettes, and vibrant colors. Photographed by renowned fashion photographer Marco Rossi, the images feature Mulvaney exuding confidence in pieces ranging from structured blazers to flowing gowns, embodying the brand’s ethos of empowerment and individuality.

A Statement on Inclusivity

Versace’s creative director, Donatella Versace, praised Mulvaney’s influence and energy in a press statement: “Dylan represents a new generation of trailblazers who are redefining beauty and strength. Her authenticity and passion align perfectly with Versace’s vision of celebrating all women.” The decision aligns with the fashion industry’s broader shift toward inclusivity, with brands increasingly embracing models and ambassadors from underrepresented communities.

The move has garnered widespread attention, with reactions ranging from enthusiastic support to polarized debate. Supporters have lauded Versace for championing diversity, noting that featuring a transgender woman in a women’s collection campaign challenges traditional norms and promotes acceptance. “This is a powerful statement,” said fashion commentator Lena Carter. “Versace is not just selling clothes; they’re amplifying voices that have historically been marginalized in luxury fashion.”

Mixed Reactions and Cultural Impact

However, the announcement has also sparked criticism from some quarters, with detractors arguing that a transgender woman fronting a women’s collection undermines traditional gender categories. Social media platforms, particularly X, have seen heated discussions, with hashtags like #VersaceDylan and #FashionForAll trending globally. Critics of the backlash, however, argue that such reactions reflect resistance to evolving societal norms and the fashion industry’s role in driving cultural change.

The controversy echoes similar debates surrounding other brands that have embraced transgender ambassadors, such as Bud Light’s partnership with Mulvaney in 2023, which also faced significant pushback. Yet, Versace’s decision appears to be a calculated one, backed by market research indicating that younger consumers—particularly Gen Z and Millennials—prioritize brands that align with values of inclusivity and social progress.

What This Means for Fashion

Versace’s collaboration with Mulvaney is part of a broader trend in the fashion industry, where brands like Gucci, Chanel, and Burberry have also diversified their campaigns to include non-binary and transgender models. Analysts predict that such moves will continue to shape the industry, as consumers increasingly demand representation that reflects the world’s complexity.

For Mulvaney, the partnership is a career milestone and a platform to further her advocacy. In an Instagram post following the announcement, she wrote, “Being part of Versace’s vision is a dream come true. This is for every trans kid who dares to dream big—your story matters.”

Looking Forward

As the Spring/Summer 2025 collection rolls out, all eyes will be on Versace and Mulvaney to see how this campaign influences both the brand’s legacy and the broader fashion landscape. The partnership not only highlights Versace’s willingness to take risks but also reinforces the power of fashion as a medium for social change.

Whether celebrated or contested, Versace’s decision to feature Dylan Mulvaney is a defining moment, one that challenges conventions and invites the world to rethink who gets to define beauty, strength, and femininity in the 21st century.