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, whose departure as creative director of the family-founded luxury label was announced Thursday, overcame tragedy and self-doubt to reinvent herself as head of one of Italy's leading fashion houses.

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.