Salehe Bembury to Leave Versace, Launching His Own Brand in 2021
“Donatella Versace offered me a life-changing opportunity, and Versace offered me a platform.”
Named Footwear Designer of the Year by Footwear News earlier this month, Salehe Bembury has announced that he will be leaving his role as Vice President of Sneakers and Men’s Footwear at Versace. The creative has confirmed that he has no plans to renew his contract with the Italian house after it expires at the end of the year.
The designer, who first joined Versace in September 2017, introduced some of the most exciting footwear designs over the past seasons. Memorable silhouettes include the Squalo, which was once dressed in tropical patterns reminiscent of J.Lo’s iconic green dress, and the Trigreca.
“Donatella Versace offered me a life-changing opportunity, and Versace offered me a platform. Often individuals that look like me are not put in the same position,” the designer shared in a conversation with HYPEBEAST. “This significant detail was not taken for granted and ultimately, I hope that my role is used as a vehicle for progress. I am forever grateful for what was bestowed upon me and extremely proud of what we were able to achieve.”
Bembury will reportedly be launching his own brand in 2021 while continuing his partnerships with New Balance and ANTA.
