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.

The development brings to an end the family control over the creative direction of Versace, a brand beloved of jet-setters and famous for its showy, skin-baring looks and Medusa logo.

Donatella Versace, who took over the fashion label founded by her brother Gianni after his murder in 1997, will no longer serve as the house's chief creative officer, Versace announced today. She has become an iconic figure within the industry, and one of the very few women designers in a top role at fashion house.