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, the visionary who steered the Versace brand through triumph and tragedy, has stepped down as chief creative officer, Versace’s U.S. owner Capri Holdings announced on Thursday, March 13.

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.