Donatella Versace struggled to give up heels in rehab

Donatella Versace was terrified of not being allowed to wear high heels when she went to rehab.

The Italian designer was treated for cocaine addiction in 2004. She's previously admitted she had been taking the drug for 17 years when she sought help.

Things came to a head at her daughter Allegra's 18th birthday party, when her family staged an intervention. She then went to a treatment facility after realising she needed help.

"The only thing she complained about was not being able to wear high heels," said Italian Vogue editor-in-chief Franca Sozzani to Newsweek magazine.

"She said, 'I can give up anything, but not my high heels'. She's totally ironic and self-aware."

Donatella has no problem discussing that period in her life. She prides herself on being outspoken, which she is about many aspects of the industry she is in.

The designer took over at fashion label Versace after her brother Gianni was murdered.

She sees his influence throughout fashion - even in some other designers.

Speaking about Roberto Cavalli, she said: "I think that to do a collection - how do you say - as an homage to Versace, this is fine. But when you do a lot of collections as an homage to Versace - why? What's the point?"

Donatella is also keen to discuss her views on fashion. She thinks some people try too hard to make it something it's not, as all the industry is really about is making people look good.

"It's not intellectual; it's not art or science - it's about giving people pleasure, making them feel gorgeous. That is what people react to," she said.

- AAP