Donatella Versace on Sir Elton John: 'Elton in drag is everything for me'

Who better to spotlight as Donatella Versace’s Pride style icon than Sir Elton John himself.

The two have been fast friends for decades, as well as working together and supporting each other professionally. Donatella is a co-chair of The Rocket Fund, the Elton John Aids Foundation’s initiative to raise $125million to support LGBTQ+ programmes to fight against Aids. This year’s Versace Pride capsule collection will donate 10 per cent of sales to the foundation, which the house has supported since 1992. Philanthropy never looked so fabulous. Over to DV… 

THE FREEDOM FIGHTER

Elton John wears a Statue Of Liberty costume for a portrait session in circa 1980 (Photo by Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images)

‘Elton in drag as Lady Liberty is everything for me. Not only because he looks fabulous — I mean who wouldn’t want to see Elton on an island as you come into New York! — but because he fights for freedom and equity in everything that he does. He has the values of Lady Liberty for the LGBTQ+ community. Freedom of expression, the right to be who you are and live how you want. No one would make a better Statue of Liberty for me.’

THE PURPLE PROTECTOR

Elton John and Donatella Versace on October 22, 1991 in New York (Getty Images)

‘Look at us! We are queens of the 1990s. Somewhere in America, in a big crowd, Elton has my hand. He has always protected and looked after me and I love that about him.’ 

THE DREAM TEAM

Elton John and boyfriend David Furnish at home in London for Elton's 40th birthday party, 1987 (Getty Images)

‘This is iconic Elton and David. It was for Elton’s birthday party and I remember Elton arrived on a huge truck because he couldn’t fit in a car! David and Elton are amazing hosts and they have used their platform for good. Yes, they are totally over the top in their looks but only to bring attention to such an important issue.’

THE LEATHER LEGEND

Elton John with Donatella Versace at the opening of the new Versace store in London, 1992 (Popperfoto via Getty Images)

‘When I think of Elton, I think of generosity of spirit, laughter and joy. I love this leather look on him — so Versace. Gianni and Elton were really so close and loved each other and I got to be their sister. This is really rock and royalty, Versace-style!’

THE MAJOR MOHAWK

Elton John, performs at Pine Knob Music Theater in Clarkston, Michigan, 1986 (Getty Images)

‘Elton is the ultimate rebel — look at this stage look! He commands attention and deserves it. He is a rebel with a heart of gold, punk attitude with the voice of an angel — and he’s never afraid to push boundaries. He is so inspiring.’