Donatella Versace has announced she is leaving the role of creative director at Versace after nearly three decades.
She first took on the job in 1997, after the murder of her brother Gianni.
Donatella's successor is Dario Vitale, a former image and design director for Miu Miu, but she will not leave the fashion house entirely, instead taking on a brand ambassador position, which will see her focus on “philanthropic and charitable endeavours” and “advocate for the brand globally".
Vitale's debut collection will be the first in the brand's history to not be overseen by either Gianni or Donatella.
The shift in leader at the helm comes as speculation continues to swirl that Prada Group is looking to buy Versace from the Capri Holdings group.
Capri bought the fashion house for €2billion (A$3.4 billion) but Bloomberg reported earlier this month, Prada Group could be looking at a cheaper price tag of €1.5 billion if they move ahead.
In a statement, Donatella said she was “thrilled that Dario Vitale will be joining us, and excited to see Versace through new eyes".
“It has been the greatest honor of my life to carry on my brother Gianni’s legacy. He was the true genius, but I hope I have some of his spirit and tenacity,” she said.
"In my new role as Chief Brand Ambassador, I will remain Versace’s most passionate supporter. Versace is in my DNA and always in my heart.”
