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Gianni Versace (1946-1997) was a defining figure in fashion design during the 1980s and 1990s. Expertly combining fashion and culture, Versace entwined historical references with elegant and overtly sexual designs. Versace dressed many celebrities, including Madonna, Princess Diana and Tina Turner, and is credited with the rise of supermodels, such as Naomi Campbell, Christy Turlington and Linda Evangelista. His shows were spectacular, such as the unofficially titled ‘Freedom’ show, where supermodels walked down the catwalk miming the words to George Michael’s song. He dressed the independent spirits, celebrities, and the rich, young, and fearless. Versace built a fashion empire which included accessories, linens, and a collection for the home inspired by his preference for baroque style.