Italian designers Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana founded Dolce & Gabbana in 1985 with their first womenswear collection. Their first collection was shown at Milan Fashion Week, though it wasn’t until the pair’s fourth collection that they began to gain recognition as designers. This line drew influence from Dolce’s Sicilian roots, as well as Italian cinema of the 1940’s. These inspirations have continued throughout the years, and these references can be seen in collections to this day. Menswear was launched in 1992, as was the brand’s first perfume.
Dolce & Gabbana now offers womenswear, menswear and children’s collections, as well as beauty, jewellery, shoes and accessories. The founders continue as co-Creative Directors today, channeling the glamour and culture of their Italian roots, and the label is owned by Dolce & Gabbana Luxembourg S.à.r.l.
The distinctive Dolce & Gabbana style centres around decadent maximalism. Bold prints, elegant embellishments and ornate lace details create high-octane looks which the brand is known for. Dolce & Gabbana use playful, tongue-in-cheek prints in vivid colours, creating expert clashes which are dramatic yet stylish. Always experimental, patchworks of pattern and materials adorn trousers, skirts, blazers and more. Their glamorous aesthetic is daring and exciting with a high-fashion appeal. The label is eccentric and unapologetic, challenging our expectations. While leopard print and florals meeting on one garment is not uncommon for the brand, they also offer more understated pieces such as ‘70’s inspired graphic tees, distressed denim and romantic midi-dresses. Menswear provides contemporary yet statement designs, capturing the bold spirit typical of Dolce & Gabbana through bright colours and elaborate prints on shirts, jeans and jackets. A more laid-back style is also catered for, with the brand producing sports-luxe staples such as logoed sweatshirts and fashionable cross-body bags.
Dolce & Gabbana has 300 boutiques worldwide and can be accessed online through the label’s online store. Their styles are also available from My Theresa, Matches, Harrods.