Stefano Gabbana has stepped down as chairman of Dolce & Gabbana, the iconic fashion brand he co-founded with Domenico Dolce in 1985. Despite his resignation, which took effect on January 1, 2026, Gabbana will continue to play a key role in the company’s creative direction.
The move, described by the company as “a natural process of organizational and governance evolution,” sees Alfonso Dolce brother to Domenico take over as chairman. His appointment comes at a crucial time as the group engages in ongoing discussions with banks over debt refinancing estimated at around €450 million.
In an official statement, the Dolce & Gabbana Group confirmed that Gabbana resigned from his roles across its holding, trademarks, and main corporate entities. It emphasized that the change would not affect the brand’s creative output, which Gabbana continues to oversee.
While the company declined to provide details on the debt situation, noting that negotiations are still underway, reports suggest Gabbana is also considering options regarding his 40% stake in the business hinting at a broader restructuring within the fashion house.
Despite the behind-the-scenes shifts, the brand’s public image remains strong. At Milan Fashion Week in February, both Dolce and Gabbana made a high-profile appearance on the runway alongside Madonna, underscoring the label’s enduring flair and cultural relevance.
Built on Dolce’s Sicilian heritage and a signature aesthetic of bold, form-fitting glamour, Dolce & Gabbana has dressed global icons from Madonna to Monica Bellucci for over four decades, maintaining its status as a powerhouse in luxury fashion.
