Donatella Versace took to social media to reassure her divided fans that “she is not going anywhere” in the wake of the news that the Versace brand has been sold to Michael Kors.

The 63-year-old Italian designer recently announced the eponymous fashion label – which was founded by her late brother Gianni Versace in 1978 – had been sold to US clothing and handbags group Michael Kors for a whopping $2.1 billion.

And although fans of the brand are worried the new parent company will take over the iconic Italian brand, Donatella – who is the vice president and chief designer at the label – has insisted “Versace will remain Italian”.

Posting a professionally shot picture of herself on Instagram, Donatella wrote: “Ciao a tutti! You all know how I love the interaction that I have with all of you here. First of all, I wanted to let you know that I am NOT going anywhere, so for those who wanted to get rid of me, well…it ain’t happening!

“I also wanted to reassure you that Versace will remain Italian, made in Italy and that it will keep its glamour, daring and inclusive attitude that have made you all love it. This is just the beginning of an exciting, new adventure that I hope you will live together with me! Xoxo (sic)”.

According to Bloomberg, Michael Kors – which is changing its corporate name to Capri Holding Ltd – hope to more than double the Italian brands sales with $2 billion in revenue by selling more accessories and footwear under the Versace label.

In a statement released by Donatella earlier this week, the designer added: “It has been more than 20 years since I took over the company along with my brother Santo and daughter Allegra.

“I am proud that Versace remains very strong in both fashion and modern culture. Versace is not only synonymous with its iconic and unmistakable style, but with being inclusive and embracing of diversity, as well as empowering people to express themselves.”

Versace recently unveiled its spring/summer 2019 collection at Milan Fashion Week with a star-studded catwalk show featuring Shalom Harlow, Kaia Gerber, Gigi and Bella Hadid, Kendall Jenner and Emily Ratajkowski.

The show featured an artful mismatch of bold prints plaids and stripes in both block colours and floral sheer prints.

Guests such as Nicki Minaj, Rita Ora, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley and Luke Evans – who sported the house’s signature barocco print – graced the front row of the show.