MILAN, Sep 19, 2006/ FW/ --- Just in time for the Milano Moda Donna (Milan Womenswear Show) Spring 2007 season, Versace reopens its newly retrofitted Florence boutique with a gala event scheduled on Sep 20th.

Located in an historic medieval tower, previously Palazzo Spini, at via De’ Tornabuoni 13/R, near the Ponte Vecchio, the store has over 350 square meters of selling space distributed over four floors.

The refurbishing, which began in November 2005, has taken into consideration the historical aspect of the building, while incorporating the stylistic influences of the new concept stores for Versace.

The walls, the flooring and the original brickwork have followed the ’Sovrintendenza ai Beni Culturali di Firenze’ regulations in order to preserve the cultural heritage.

Lacquered black wood and extra bright “Antelio” crystal have been chosen for the fittings. The lighting design, an important element of the decoration, contributes to making the atmosphere even more sophisticated.

The architectural integrity of the tower in red brick, previously restored during the Nineties, has been maintained intact. The metal structures, which create vertical support to the internal framework, has been preserved leaving the original columns and pillars including a remarkable central cross shaped pillar, untouched.

The ground main floor is dedicated to accessories and will display the full range of bags, shoes, belts eyewear and Versace Precious Items for both men and women.

The lower ground floor will hold the Versace men’s ready to wear collections and the with the Versace women’s ready to wear collection will be displayed on the mezzanine level, with a VIP Atelier area for the most prestigious evening gowns and accessories.

On September 20th, the fashion set will descend to Florence to celebrate the opening of the boutique with a cocktail party. About 300 guests, including clients, press, celebrities, friends and connections of the Maison are expected to attend.

The event will feature the first appearance in Italy of the new Versace Couture Limited Edition “Jet Bag”.

This model is crafted in white quilted nappa with the Greek fret motif and decorated with the gold tag, which symbolizes the couture line. The shape is rectangular and structured, while the name refers to the recent agreement between Versace and Tag Aviation for the exclusive interior design of private planes.

The Versace Jet Bag will be available exclusively in leading Versace boutiques from November 2006 and will be produced in a limited edition of only 100.

For more information about Versace, please log on: www.versace.com