Stefano Gabbana, co-founder of renowned Italian luxury fashion house Dolce & Gabbana, has stepped down from his position as chairman while continuing to serve in his creative role within the company.
The company announced on Friday that Gabbana, 63, officially resigned from his corporate positions effective January 1, describing the move as part of a “natural process of organisational and governance evolution.”
Following the leadership change, Chief Executive Alfonso Dolce has been appointed as the new chairman of the company. Alfonso is the brother of co-founder and celebrated designer Domenico Dolce.
Despite stepping away from the boardroom, Gabbana remains actively involved in the creative direction of the brand he co-founded with Domenico Dolce in 1985. The duo has built one of the fashion industry’s most enduring and successful design partnerships, earning global recognition for their bold, form-fitting styles inspired by Sicilian heritage and Mediterranean glamour.
Reports have also indicated that Gabbana is exploring options regarding his 40 per cent stake in the company as Dolce & Gabbana enters a fresh round of discussions with lenders to refinance a debt package estimated at 450 million euros.
The company, however, declined to provide further details on the debt negotiations, stating that talks with banks are still ongoing.
The development comes shortly after both Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana made a public appearance on the runway alongside pop icon Madonna at the brand’s women’s ready-to-wear Fall/Winter 2026 collection show during Milan Fashion Week in February.
Over the years, Dolce & Gabbana has become a globally celebrated luxury label, known for its distinctive designs and celebrity appeal, dressing international stars including Madonna and Monica Bellucci.
Gabbana’s exit from the chairmanship marks a significant shift in the company’s corporate structure, even as his continued presence in the creative arm signals stability in the brand’s artistic identity.
Stefano Gabbana Steps Down as Dolce & Gabbana Chairman, Retains Creative Role
