Italy has long been synonymous with luxury, style, and craftsmanship, making it a powerhouse in the global fashion industry. From the cobbled streets of Milan to the rolling hills of Tuscany, the country is home to some of the most iconic fashion brands in history. These labels not only reflect Italian artistry but also define elegance and innovation on a global scale.

Italy’s fashion brands are more than just labels; they represent a way of life steeped in artistry, tradition, and innovation. From Milan’s runways to Hollywood’s red carpets, these brands have shaped global fashion and inspired generations.

Whether it’s a Gucci bag, a Prada dress, or a pair of Ferragamo shoes, each piece tells a story of Italian excellence, ensuring that the country remains at the heart of the fashion world for years to come.

Here’s a closer look at one of the most celebrated fashion brands founded in Italy.

Dolce & Gabbana was founded in 1985 by Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana. They met while working in Milan, and relaunched their own design studio shortly after, debuting at Milan Fashion Week with their “Real Women” collection, using friends as models when funds were tight. Drawing upon Domenico’s Sicilian upbringing and Italian cinematic heritage, the brand established a style known for lace, corsetry, and bold femininity.

By the early '90s, Dolce & Gabbana had become a fashion powerhouse. Their costumes for Madonna’s 1993 Girlie Show tour propelled them to global fame. The duo's line expanded to include men's wear, accessories, fragrances, and after a landmark 2003 year, they surpassed even Gucci and Prada in Italian market share.

For their 40th anniversary, Dolce & Gabbana hosted “From the Heart to the Hands,” an exhibition at Milan’s Palazzo Reale. It featured over 100 couture pieces alongside digital artistry, spotlighting their heritage and artisanal craftsmanship. More recently, at Alta Moda 2025, they debuted a sculptural Trevi Fountain-inspired handbag – a dramatic emblem of theatrical storytelling and architectural tribute.

Celebrity presence remains at the heart of D&G’s aura. Notably, actor Christian Bale attended their Alta Moda couture show in Rome with his wife and children, all adorned in the brand’s elegant, coordinated black ensembles. Pop legend Cher also made a striking appearance, delivering a bold performance in tribute to her iconic style.

Despite the glitz, Dolce & Gabbana faced recent controversy. In mid-2025, two makeup artists filed a lawsuit against the brand’s beauty arm, alleging delayed payments and retaliation —highlighting tensions between luxury branding and labor practices. 

Dolce & Gabbana have journeyed from modest Milanese beginnings to become a leading force in luxury fashion. With designs rooted in Italian tradition, amplified by celebrity allure and modern storytelling, they consistently craft collections that feel both timeless and theatrical. Their devotion to craftsmanship endures, even as the brand navigates the complexities of public scrutiny and internal challenges.