Not to be left in the dust by Lanvin, Fendi, Gucci, or Stella McCartney, Versace is gearing up to make a children's collection, too. Called Young Versace and aimed at wee ones from infancy to age twelve, the collection is not to be confused with the label's previous kids' line Versace Young, which was discontinued in 2004. Reports Women's Wear Daily:

“This is a high-end, glamorous and colorful collection in line with the brand’s essence, with a touch of rock ’n’ roll,” said Gian Giacomo Ferraris, chief executive officer of Versace SpA. The label’s iconic symbols, such as the Greek frieze and the Medusa, will be reinterpreted with a sense of irony and fun prints in natural fabrics.

Obviously, toddlers won't understand the irony of swaddling their diapered bottoms in vibrant Medusa-print onesies, but most toddlers don't care what goes over their diapers anyway. Designer kids' clothes are made principally for parents' enjoyment, as well as the enjoyment of their wealthy friends who will feel great about bestowing such garments as presents. "It's a Versace spit-up bib!" the gift-giver will say triumphantly, searching the recipient parents' faces to see if they think it's genuinely or ironically cute. Then, depending on the reaction, everyone will either: a) roll their eyes and laugh or b) coo about how adorable it is. Win-win?

The collection will debut for spring 2012 during the international children’s wear exhibition, Pitti Immagine Bimbo, which fittingly takes place on fairgrounds in Florence.

Versace to Launch Kids Line [WWD]