Stefano Gabbana (left) and Domenico Dolce (right)
The Dolce & Gabbana brand was created out of love. Italian designers Domenico Dolce (born in Sicily in 1958) and Stefano Gabbana (born in Milan in 1962) launched the luxury label in 1982 when they were design assistants in Milan. After struggling to get their unique stylings noticed in the world of couture fashion, the pair enjoyed their first taste of success in 1985 when they debuted at the New Talent show during Milan Fashion Week. At about the same time, the duo sparked a romantic relationship that would last for 19 years. Although their romance ended prematurely and privately, the Dolce & Gabbana label did not falter. A favorite of celebrities such as Madonna, Angelina Jolie, Brad Pitt and Isabella Rossellini, Dolce & Gabbana has remained a red-carpet mainstay for edgy entertainers while enjoying mass appeal through its expanded brand, which includes accessories, juniors, perfumes and less expensive designer collections. For the love of fashion, D&G, as they're often known, continue to work together seamlessly to tailor their distinctive look without losing an ounce of allure.