Does Versace Support Israel? What You Need to Know in 2025

People ask tough questions about luxury brands tied to places caught up in conflicts—and Versace’s in the hot seat. The famous Italian fashion brand, owned by an American company called Capri Holdings, runs stores in Tel Aviv and works with Israeli sellers like H&O. That’s why searches like “does Versace support Israel?” and “is Versace Israeli?” blew up in 2024.

Versace isn’t Israeli—it’s Italian—but because its parent company does business in Israel (even in areas disputed by Palestinians), activists from the BDS movement (Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions) are furious. They say selling luxury goods there makes Israel’s occupation seem normal. This article breaks down Versace’s business ties, how it’s part of Israel’s fancy fashion scene, and why activists say buying Versace might mean supporting unfair politics.

Is Versace Israeli? The Brand’s Origins and Ownership

Versace is not an Israeli brand. Here’s the breakdown:

• Founded in 1978 by Gianni Versace in Milan, Italy.
• Parent Company: Acquired by Capri Holdings (formerly Michael Kors Holdings) in 2018, a U.S.-based conglomerate that also owns Michael Kors and Jimmy Choo.
• Israeli Presence: Capri Holdings operates Versace boutiques in Tel Aviv via third-party distributors.

Key Fact: Versace has no manufacturing facilities in Israel, but its products are sold there through franchises like H&O, a luxury retailer with stores in Israeli settlements.

Does Versace Support Israel? Parent Company Ties and Controversies

While Versace doesn’t directly fund Israel’s government, its corporate ecosystem raises questions:

1. Capri Holdings’ Israeli Retail:
   • Operates Versace stores in Tel Aviv’s Dizengoff Center, a mall linked to Israeli billionaire David Azrieli, who funds pro-settlement groups.
   • Partnered with H&O (2023), which sells Versace in settlements like Herzliya.
2. BDS Movement’s Stance:
   • BDS labels Capri Holdings a “secondary target” due to its Israeli retail footprint.
   • Quote from BDS (2024): “Profits from Versace sales in Israel fund oppression. Boycott all Capri brands.”

2024 Controversy: A viral Instagram post accused Versace of dressing IDF officers’ spouses at Tel Aviv Fashion Week. Versace denied involvement, but the backlash persists.

Ethical Alternatives to Versace: Luxury Without Complicity

If avoiding brands linked to Israel, try these BDS-approved luxury labels:

1. Stella McCartney: Vegan, sustainable, and outspoken on human rights.
2. Elie Saab: Lebanese designer championing Arab craftsmanship.
3. Vetements: Anti-establishment brand with no Israeli retail presence.

Pro Tip: Use the BDS National Committee’s list to vet brands.

Is Versace Halal? Navigating Fashion Ethics

• Animal Products: Versace uses leather, fur, and silk, non-halal materials.
• Ethical Concerns: Beyond materials, activists urge avoiding Versace for its Israeli retail ties.

Halal-Certified Luxury:

• Aab Collection: Modest, vegan, and ethically produced.
• Dôen: Women-owned, transparent supply chains.

FAQs

1. Is Versace an Israeli brand?
No. Versace is Italian, owned by U.S.-based Capri Holdings.

2. Does Versace have stores in Israel?
Yes, via third-party distributors like H&O.

3. Is Versace on the BDS boycott list?
Indirectly. BDS targets Capri Holdings for operating in Israel.

4. Who owns Versace?
Capri Holdings, which also owns Michael Kors and Jimmy Choo.

5. Are there ethical Versace alternatives?
Yes: Stella McCartney, Elie Saab, and Aab Collection.

Summary

Does Versace support Israel? While Versace isn’t Israeli, its parent company’s retail operations in Israel (via H&O and Tel Aviv boutiques) make it a BDS “secondary target.” For strict ethical consumers, swapping to brands like Stella McCartney or Elie Saab avoids indirect ties to Israel’s economy. Always verify corporate links via WhoProfits and remember: luxury shouldn’t compromise justice. As designer Vivienne Westwood once said, “Buy less, choose well.” Your wardrobe can reflect both style and principles.