Dolce & Gabbana Overview

This fashion duo strives for the perfect combination of magical surrealism and traditional glamour. Domenico Dulce (Palermo, Sicily) and Stefano Gabbana (Milan) grew up in different parts of the Italian countryside and bring their independent heritages together in the design studio.... [more]

This fashion duo strives for the perfect combination of magical surrealism and traditional glamour. Domenico Dulce (Palermo, Sicily) and Stefano Gabbana (Milan) grew up in different parts of the Italian countryside and bring their independent heritages together in the design studio. Their creations draw from the mythology of old Italy, the drama of Italian cinema, the best of avant-garde fashion, and traditional, prefeminist styles. While the inspirations for Dolce & Gabbana's collections vary widely, one thing always remains constant: the sensuality of the feminine form. Sometimes it can be seen in the mysterious, hidden sensuality of a veiled model who seems to have emerged like Venus from the rustic Sicilian countryside. Sometimes it takes the form of a tempting siren in masculine garb, beckoning to the unwary and causing them to stray into the dangerous, unknown territory of the feminine. No matter what, the basic elements of fantasy, magic, and sex remain. Part of their innovation comes from their willingness to use unconventional fabrics. They have achieved notoriety by using leopard and other animal prints in their designs. The book "Animal" documents the way their bestial themes project a wildly dangerous aura onto women. They are also known for adding sophistications to otherwise simple designs, including complicated fastening systems, ruffled blouses, and lace. Other noted synergistic motifs have included a modernized peasant look, a rhinestone bodice worn by Madonna, and a restyling of the cassock (a garment typically worn by clergymen). Dolce & Gabbana have always succeeded in blending the old with the new to startling effect. Their designs evoke "la dolce vita" -- the sweet life -- that can be found in any generation. [show less]