The creative minds behind Dolce & Gabbana, Stefano Gabbana and Domenico Dolce, are on an introspective journey. This relentless pursuit of the essence of their work appears to deepen with each passing season. Themes such as the permanence of identity, the concept of legacy, and the fluctuating nature of trends, continually occupy their minds.
During a press conference preceding the unveiling of their Spring/Summer 2024 Collection, the duo didn’t hold back on their self-reflective discourse. Coupled with their sharp wit, it served as a fascinating insight into their current state of mind. Domenico pondered, “In a world constantly saturated with trends, influencers, and ceaseless social media chatter, we ask ourselves, “Will we be remembered? Will our legacy withstand the test of time? Will our style live on?””
An invitation to their latest show was accompanied by a metal replica of a credit card and a booklet brimming with images of the collection, with “STYLE” emboldened on its cover. “The credit card is symbolic of identity – unique and individual. It resonates with style, which, too, is about having a strong identity and solid foundation,” Stefano articulated. Domenico added, “While fashion is fleeting, style is enduring. Our aim was to create something novel while staying true to our unique style, allowing it to mature but remain recognisable.”
The duo’s concerns about leaving a significant legacy are unwarranted. Their design ethos, so intricately embedded within their brand, allows ample space for reinvention without compromising its unique charm. They have always expressed their creative impulses powerfully through menswear, and the Spring collection was no exception. Referencing their own classic signatures – the quintessential tank top, their devotion to black, the traditional Sicilian coppola, lace, and transparencies, to name a few – they were able to infuse these elements with a modern, simplified aesthetic.
The result was a collection characterized by a sophisticated simplicity. The attire was sculpted into slim silhouettes with a sprinkling of roomier pieces that flowed effortlessly. The color palette was limited yet striking, featuring black, white, caramel, gray, and dark brown. In contrast to the meticulously tailored suits, there were transparencies lending an air of subtle sensuality, while sparse embellishments graced Oxford ensembles. Referencing the rich history of Magna Grecia, tank tops transformed into tight-draped bustiers and t-shirts, paired with high-waisted fluid trousers.
Both designers shared their conviction, “A dress must conform to the body rather than the trends. That’s why construction is paramount to us.” Sitting in the front row, fans including Machine Gun Kelly, K-pop star Doyoung, and Italian singer Blanco seemed to unanimously agree: Dolce & Gabbana’s legacy is flourishing.
Click on this link to read this article in French version
