Donatella Versace is stepping down as the chief creative officer of Versace. The Italian fashion designer was the head of her late brother Gianni Versace’s luxury fashion empire for nearly 30 years. She took over the fashion house after his tragic murder in 1997.

MILAN – Donatella Versace was named brand ambassador of the fashion house she has helped grow on her own for the past 28 years, following the death of her beloved brother Gianni. On Thursday, Versace announced that the designer would be succeeded by Dario Vitale, named chief creative officer, effective April 1.

Donatella Versace, who helped to ensure the survival of the family fashion empire after the killing of her brother Gianni almost three decades ago, is to step down as the brand's chief designer, its owner announced on Thursday.

Donatella Versace is giving up the creative reins of luxury fashion label Versace after nearly three decades, it was announced Thursday, effectively ending the family's hold over the brand founded by her murdered brother.