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The Universal Magazine

Dolce & Gabbana: The Indispensable Duo of Fashion

The American superstar Madonna and Dolce & Gabbana

The story of Dolce & Gabbana, the famous Italian fashion house, is inseparable from the passion that united its founders: fashion. Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana, in addition to their initial love, created a brand famous for its Italian elegance. Despite the ups and downs of the heart, their common vision continues to infuse boldness and originality into fashion. Discover a legendary house…

Dolce & Gabbana: history of the beginnings

Meeting of Dolce and Gabbana

Dolce and Gabbana met in 1980 in a fashion workshop in Milan where they both worked. They quickly formed a successful and loving relationship, sharing a common passion for fashion and design.

The two founders of the brand from left to right: Stefano Gabbana and Domenico Dolce
The two founders of the brand from left to right: Stefano Gabbana and Domenico Dolce

Creation of their fashion company

In 1982, the couple created their own company. They first worked as consultants for different brands, then launched their first collection.

First collection Donne Vere / Real Women

Dolce & Gabbana’s first collection, titled Donne Vere / Real Women, was presented in 1986, during Milan Fashion Week. It was very successful, with perfect clothes that highlight the femininity and sensuality of women.

Other collections and opening of their first boutique

After this success, Dolce & Gabbana continued with several successful collections, which quickly increased their notoriety. As early as 1986, they opened their first boutique in Milan, in the prestigious Via della Moscova district.

Dolce & Gabbana parade: Italian heritage, Renaissance inclination, modern balloon and ice cream patterns, and large vintage roses on elegant dresses
Dolce & Gabbana parade: Italian heritage, Renaissance inclination, modern balloon and ice cream patterns, and large vintage roses on elegant dresses

Evolution of the brand

Collaborations with other companies

The Dolce & Gabbana house has collaborated with several companies over time. It worked with Motorola to manufacture stylish mobile phones. It also created the Smeg Dolce Gabbana household appliances, including the famous toaster.

Expansion and success worldwide

Dolce & Gabbana quickly expanded abroad, with stores in major cities such as Paris, London, New York, Tokyo…

Dolce & Gabbana Inspiration

Sicily

Sicily, where Domenico was born, greatly inspires Dolce & Gabbana with its floral patterns, embroideries, and warm colors reflecting the landscape and traditions of the island.

Italian cinema

Italian cinema, especially films from the 1950s and 1960s, also influences the brand’s aesthetics. The designers often honor cinema icons like Sophia Loren, Anna Magnani, or Marcello Mastroianni, who represent Italian glamour.

Fashion and design creators

Dolce & Gabbana also draws inspiration from major design figures, such as Christian Dior, Coco Chanel, or Gianni Versace.

The designers revisit and modernize these influences to offer increasingly bold and avant-garde collections.

Brand communication

D&G Ad

Dolce & Gabbana advertisements are often shocking and daring. They have made an impression and have shown the brand’s talent for creating buzz and getting noticed. Each campaign testifies to D&G’s DNA, characterized by a sensual aesthetic and a strong visual identity.

Dolce & Gabbana lipstick advertisement attesting to the brand's success in cosmetics
Dolce & Gabbana lipstick advertisement attesting to the brand’s success in cosmetics

Stars and beloved muses

Icons such as Monica Bellucci, Scarlett Johansson, Madonna, Emilia Clarke, Zayn Malik, Kylie Minogue, Naomi Campbell, and many others… have greatly contributed to the radiance and influence of the Dolce & Gabbana brand.

The two founders of the Dolce & Gabbana brand accompanied by the Australian popstar Kylie Minogue
The two founders of the Dolce & Gabbana brand accompanied by the Australian popstar Kylie Minogue

Dolce & Gabbana has managed to evolve with trends while remaining true to its Italian roots. The brand, renowned for its fashion, perfumes, and accessories, has won over a varied audience. Despite controversies related to religious-themed clothing and tax issues, their luxury empire is globally recognized. Anna Dello Russo, editor for Vogue Italy then Japan, deeply admires their work.

Fashion editor Anna Dello Russo between Stefano Gabbana and Domenico Dolce
Fashion editor Anna Dello Russo between Stefano Gabbana and Domenico Dolce

Iconic creations

Dolce & Gabbana Dress

The Sicilian Dress is one of D&G’s most iconic creations. The collection is inspired by traditional Sicilian clothing. It features fitted cuts, corsets, and embroidered flower patterns. This collection evokes a romantic and sensual aesthetic.

Woman wearing a D&G strapless dress with carretto print, reflecting Sicilian tradition
Woman wearing a D&G strapless dress with carretto print, reflecting Sicilian tradition

Underwear as clothing and gangster suits

Dolce & Gabbana popularized the wearing of underwear as standalone clothing. This includes bras and corsets.

The brand also made a mark with revisited gangster suits, mixing glamour and provocation.

Dolce & Gabbana Perfumes

Dolce Gabbana perfumes are must-haves that complement and enrich the universe of the famous Italian label.

The Dolce and Gabbana Rose The One perfume, an iconic product of the brand
The Dolce and Gabbana Rose The One perfume, an iconic product of the brand

Among Dolce Gabbana perfumes, The One is undoubtedly the most iconic. It is a seductive and captivating perfume, combining oriental and floral notes to create a modern and timeless fragrance.

The Dolce Gabbana perfume for women is a light and romantic fragrance, in line with the brand’s image.

Dolce & Gabbana Shoes

Dolce & Gabbana women’s sneakers are very popular. Each pair is designed with precision. The details are sought after.

Dolce & Gabbana sneakers stand out just as much. They mix tradition and modernity for an always trendy style. These shoes are highly prized by fashion connoisseurs.

The brand is now renowned for its sneakers and trainers
The brand is now renowned for its sneakers and trainers

Dolce Gabbana Bags

The bags also reflect the know-how and creativity of the fashion house. Each bag is designed with originality to be practical and unique.

The Dolce & Gabbana brand offers a variety of handbags or shoulder bags
The Dolce & Gabbana brand offers a variety of handbags or shoulder bags

Dolce & Gabbana Watches

Although D&G are not traditionally recognized as watchmakers, they have introduced a distinctive approach to the industry. Inspired by iconic Italian architectures, their watches combine baroque design and quartz mechanism. This alliance between craftsmanship and aesthetics evokes the brand’s DNA, while presenting a modern vision of watchmaking.

Continuation of Dolce and Gabbana’s journey despite their separation

Despite their announced breakup in 2005, Dolce and Gabbana still work together. This testifies to their dedication and passion for fashion. Their creative duo and unique vision have made D&G a strong brand in haute couture and ready-to-wear.

The two founders of the Dolce & Gabbana brand
The two founders of the Dolce & Gabbana brand

Impact of Dolce & Gabbana on Fashion

In conclusion, Dolce & Gabbana symbolizes luxury and exuberance. Attracting a young and affluent clientele, it evokes a strong Mediterranean coloring. Each creation reveals a unique design. As can be seen during fashion weeks, its impact on the fashion universe is undeniable. Eccentricity mixed with tradition marks generations of fashion enthusiasts.

Complete logo of Dolce & Gabbana
Complete logo of Dolce & Gabbana

Dolce & Gabbana website & social networks