Last year, in recognition of her contribution to Italian fashion, Ms. Versace was given the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic, one of the highest honors in Italy. “Versace is what it is today because of Donatella Versace,” Emmanuel Gintzburger, the chief executive of Versace, said in the news release.

Donatella Versace stepping down as the main designer for the Versace brand after almost three decades marks the ''end of an era,'' said Lena De Casparis, Deputy Editor of Elle UK.

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

Donatella Versace has been fundamental in spearheading the brand. In addition to her work as a designer, she has acquired A-list popularity on social media, and is widely recogniz