Donatella Versace Steps Down as Creative Director of Versace

Milan: Donatella Versace is stepping down as the Italian fashion house’s creative director, a role she has held since taking over after her brother Gianni’s murder in Miami in 1997, the maison said Thursday. Former Miu Miu designer Dario Vitale has been named the new creative director, it said.

According to Ansa News Agency, Donatella, 69, will remain in the maison as Chief Brand Ambassador. In her new role, Donatella Versace will dedicate herself to supporting Versace’s philanthropic and charitable initiatives and will remain an advocate for the brand globally.

“I will remain the most passionate supporter of Versace, which is in my DNA and always in my heart,” she said. Gianni Versace was murdered outside his Miami Beach mansion by serial killer Andrew Cunanan at the age of 50 on July 15, 1997.