December 2024

Gen D – Generation Designers

The Dolce&Gabbana Casa project, which highlights new design talents

Human Care & New Generation

Dolce&Gabbana launches Gen D – Generation Designers, a project dedicated to design that promotes emerging talents in the field. The initiative brings together international designers who, in collaboration with the artisans working with the brand, develop their creations, connecting with the centuries-old traditions of Made in Italy craftsmanship. This fusion of innovation and expert craftsmanship creates a fresh vision of design.

Born from the desire of Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana to bring the same forward-thinking approach that has always defined the brand into the field of furniture design, Gen D creates ad ongoing path, aimed at creating a dialogue between the company’s creativity, Italian traditions, and global influences.

Dolce&Gabbana and Gen D, Generation Designers

Discover the designers, creations, and all the news from the latest edition of the project.

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March 2024

Dolce&Gabbana and Cà Foscari: the “Fenice” project wins

The winning team from the DG Cross-Cultural Awareness & Expertise educational workshop, in collaboration with Ca’ Foscari University, has been honoured with a prize

Ecosystem Collaboration

The award ceremony for the DG Cross-Cultural Awareness & Expertise educational workshop, a collaborative initiative between Dolce&Gabbana and Ca’ Foscari University, was held at DG Martini® in Milan. During the event, the students involved in the “Fenice” project were proclaimed as the winners.

Initiated in late May of last year, the workshop engaged thirty students from Ca’ Foscari University in Venice. Its primary goal was to offer an innovative educational experience where students could confront real-world challenges. Additionally, it aimed to establish a collaboration between Dolce&Gabbana and Ca’ Foscari, with the objective of enhancing the innovation process through creativity and interdisciplinary approaches, develop new ideas and solutions based on innovation challenges, and nurture young talents.

CLabs are innovative educational projects that, in collaboration with national entities in the local area, aim to foster a culture of sustainability, innovation, and hands-on learning through active workshops at the university. They also promote interdisciplinary approaches and new learning models using innovative methodologies like Design Thinking and Business Model Canvas.

The winning project

Developed by students from the Crimson group, the Fenice project endeavours to establish a constructive and considerate exchange between two realms: Dolce&Gabbana and Chinese culture. This initiative is structured around a three-phase plan: preserving Chinese intangible heritage, creating inclusive and versatile pop-up stores, and producing short videos covering various themes. A pivotal aspect of the group’s collaboration was the diverse academic backgrounds and experiences of its members, which contributed to a fusion of ideas and expertise, enriching the project substantially.

Among the numerous awards presented to the winning team, consisting of Vittorio Cattel, Paola Gheno, Yueling Guan, Simona Tung, and Mejtullahe Vogli, is an olive tree from the non-profit organization Save the Olives.

October 2023

Towards a circular and lower environmental impact packaging: Dolce&Gabbana’s guidelines

Zero Waste Approach

An integral part of the broader sustainability commitment undertaken by Dolce&Gabbana, is represented by the target aimed to reduce single-use virgin plastic in packaging by 50% by 2025, and to completely phase it out by 2030. In this regard, it has been developed a systematic approach to gradually transition the packaging towards lower-impact and circular practices, inspired by the principles of the 4R framework: Reduce, Reuse, Recover, Recycle. All these elements will be further strengthened namely packaging Certification.

1. REDUCE

Key principles:
– Eliminate unnecessary packaging, whenever possible, to reduce resource usage and minimize waste.
– Decrease packaging weight and volume, optimizing transportation efficiency without compromising packaging quality or durability.
– Avoid single-use plastics for both industrial and consumer packaging.

Dolce&Gabbana Achievements to date

Dolce&Gabbana has already eliminated the use of plastic in gift packaging and is extending its efforts to remove it from all other types used within the retail channel. For instance, the company is replacing handles and ribbons in shopping bags with components made from cotton and using recycled plastic for garment covers.

Regarding Dolce&Gabbana Casa products, the objective is to eliminate magnets from gift packaging, reduce the overall volume of packaging, and seek alternatives with a lower environmental impact compared to expanded polyethylene, while ensuring maximum protection for the products.

In terms of packaging used in industrial processes, Dolce&Gabbana aims to completely eliminate shrink wrap plastic by 2025. Beginning in autumn 2023, the company has adopted a new machine for flat garments that avoids the use of plastic materials, with plans to extend this benefit to hanging garments in the future.

2. REUSE

Key principles:
– Prioritize durable product packaging to extend its lifespan and enhance customer value.
– Increase the reuse of industrial packaging to reduce resource consumption.

Dolce&Gabbana Achievements to date

The packaging used by Dolce&Gabbana, both in industrial processes and within the retail channel, is made from high-quality materials and designed for reuse. The iconic shopping bags and metal boxes are constructed from durable materials to ensure their longevity over time.

In the first half of 2024, Dolce&Gabbana Beauty announced the launch of new refillable products: the Refillable Everfull XL Mascara, the Refillable Everlift Luminizer, the Devotion Eau de Parfum Refillable, and the Q Eau de Parfum Refillable. These new offerings reaffirm and strengthen the brand’s commitment to reusable packaging solutions, significantly contributing to the reduction of environmental impact per unit of product volume. Designed to facilitate refilling, they allow consumers to refresh their favourite beauty products without the need to purchase a new container.

Specifically, using a 150 ml Refillable Eau de Parfum bottle results in a 76% reduction in the total weight of packaging compared to using three non-refillable 50 ml bottles. More precisely, this solution allows for a 72% reduction in glass usage, a 100% reduction in metals, a 48% reduction in plastic, and a 62% reduction in paper and cardboard.

In the second half of 2024, the Beauty division will also introduce additional refillable packaging options for its products, aiming to maximize reusability and further reduce environmental impact.

3. RECOVER

Key principles:
– Implement recovery initiatives both for consumers and at the industrial levels.
– Develop upcycling projects to reclaim and repurpose packaging waste.

Dolce&Gabbana Achievements to date

An important recovery project undertaken by Dolce&Gabbana relates to the packaging of lingerie. This initiative began in early 2023, spearheaded by a long-standing industrial supplier of the Group, which, as the leader of a transformation cycle involving multiple stakeholders, facilitates the recovery of unusable waste fabrics and transforms them into high-quality paper for packaging materials.

Thanks to this collaboration, during the year in question, the Group was able to reintegrate 10,200 kg of fabric into a transformation cycle that generates circular packaging.

4. RECYCLE

Key principles:
– Adopt recycled, recyclable, renewable, and compostable materials for both product and industrial packaging.
– Opt for 100% recyclable packaging thus avoiding multilayer materials.
– Eliminate the use of hazardous substances that could pose risks to human and environmental health during recycling processes.
– Provide transparent information about sustainability features and guidelines for proper packaging disposal.

Dolce&Gabbana Achievements to date

Dolce&Gabbana is committed to using 100% recycled plastic for retail packaging by 31 March 2025 and is actively working towards achieving 100% recyclability of its materials. The tertiary packaging used for logistical purposes consists of 80% recycled cardboard and is fully recyclable.

Additionally, Dolce&Gabbana has joined the Hangerloop programme for the purchase, recovery, and reuse of hangers made from 100% recycled plastic. Discarded hangers undergo a process of shredding and melting before being returned to Dolce&Gabbana’s warehouses as new hangers, thus completing the cycle of production and use of the raw material.

5. CERTIFICATION

Key principles:
– Choose third-party certified materials to guarantee consistency, transparency, and market recognition of sustainability claims (e.g., Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), Fairmined).

Dolce&Gabbana Achievements to date

All paper and cardboard packaging for beauty products is FSC certified, while the paper and cardboard packaging used for products in the retail channel will achieve FSC certification by 31st March 2025.

September 2023

Celebrating Excellence: Dolce&Gabbana wins at the CNMI Sustainable Fashion Awards 2023

Dolce&Gabbana secures The Craft & Italian Artisanship Award at the CNMI Sustainable Fashion Awards 2023 in Milan on Sunday 24th September, reinforcing the brand’s dedication to craftsmanship and sustainability.

Made in Italy and Heritage Preservation

The National Chamber of Italian Fashion, in collaboration with the Ethical Fashion Initiative of the United Nations Agency ITC, and in partnership with the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, awarded Dolce&Gabbana the Craft & Italian Artisanship Award.

The evening was held at the prestigious Teatro alla Scala in Milan, at the end of Milan Fashion Week to a host of special guests and luminaries deeply committed to the realm of sustainable fashion.

Notably, during the event, Bianca Balti, presented the Craft & Italian Artisanship Award to Alfonso Dolce, CEO of Dolce&Gabbana. This award recognizes the brand’s relentless enthusiasm for promoting Italianness and Made in Italy to the world through local artisan expertise and compelling storytelling rooted in the culture of Southern Italy.

The brand founded by Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana has become a global leader in luxury fashion, offering clothing, footwear, accessories, jewellery, watches, homeware and Beauty. Their commitment to preserving Italian culture, art, and tradition shines through every creation.

Crafting excellence

Dolce&Gabbana’s journey has been one of creativity, innovation, and a profound respect for Italian heritage. Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana have extended the brand’s iconic values and codes into a multifaceted array of high-end products, beyond just fashion. Their unwavering commitment to quality and craftsmanship is not just evident in their clothing and accessory lines but is a deep-rooted philosophy that extends to every facet of the brand.

Sustainability at the Core

In recent years, Dolce&Gabbana’s vision has encompassed sustainability, aligning with the brand’s dedication to preserving Italy’s rich culture, art, and traditions. Recognizing the profound value of sustainability, the brand embarked on a journey to reduce its carbon footprint, transition to 100% renewable electricity, and champion a waste and resource recovery program. Moreover, Dolce&Gabbana has played a pivotal role in nurturing young talents in the manufacturing sector, with the Botteghe di Mestiere Project, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to the next generation.

A focus on craftmanship

Dolce&Gabbana’s special emphasis on craftsmanship harmonizes seamlessly with its sustainability initiatives and commitment to promoting Italian heritage and tradition. The brand’s long-standing collaborations with Italian manufacturing companies serve as a testament to their dedication to preserving the country’s artisanal heritage. These collaborations also contribute significantly to Italy’s textile supply chain and manufacturing sector.

Dolce&Gabbana’s adherence to the principles of the circular economy and “Made in Italy” ethos further cements its position as a champion of sustainable practices in the fashion industry while celebrating Italy’s rich cultural heritage. The Alta Moda events, for instance, go beyond exquisite fashion—they showcase the deep cultural roots of Italy’s most iconic locations, ensuring that Dolce&Gabbana’s legacy continues to flourish and safeguard Italy’s cultural and artisanal treasures for future generations.

Fostering partnerships

Dolce&Gabbana carefully selects partners that share its values, promoting the concept of “bello e ben fatto” or “beautiful and well-made.” These partnerships not only elevate the brand but also provide opportunities for local artisans to gain international visibility and recognition. The brand actively involves craftsmen not only in production but also in events, fashion shows, and corporate activations worldwide. It collaborates with historical Italian workshops, sustaining collaborations with artisans who specialize in various crafts, from fabric flowers to embroidery.

These artisanal enterprises not only play a vital role in the brand’s success but also add economic and social value to local communities, solidifying Dolce&Gabbana’s commitment to the broader Italian community. Dolce&Gabbana’s collaborations not only preserve Italian craftsmanship but also ensure its flourishing in the modern world.

In conclusion, Dolce&Gabbana’s recent achievement at the CNMI Sustainable Fashion Awards 2023 serves as a testament to the brand’s enduring dedication to craftsmanship, sustainability, and the preservation of Italian culture and heritage. As the brand continues to evolve, its unwavering commitment to these principles promises to shape the future of fashion and luxury in a more sustainable and culturally enriched manner.

August 2023

Dolce&Gabbana: towards a more Sustainable and Circular production

The company is actively pursuing ambitious projects to boost circularity in the Apparel Industry, leveraging ecosystem collaboration

Materials & Circularity

Zero Waste Approach

One of the most pressing challenges for the fashion industry is the pursuit of greater sustainability. Dolce&Gabbana is a company that exhibits remarkable drive, bolstered by its expertise and the passion with which it approaches every aspect of its operations. Prioritizing increasingly sustainable production has become an urgent focus in recent years, with a keen eye on optimizing every stage of the supply chain, presenting opportunities to minimize waste and give a new life to materials like cotton, metal, leather, and plastic.

Through collaborations with the Consorzio Re.Crea and outstanding Italian partners, the company holds grand visions for the future.

The success of zipper upcycling

Among the successful projects of the company, the zipper upcycling one stands out. The idea originated in 2018 when Dolce&Gabbana found itself managing a warehouse containing a staggering 900,000 zippers, just as the price of brass was significantly rising. The solution was a collaboration with a historic foundry in Castellanza, which allowed the separation of brass from the tape. Thanks to this initiative, 980 kg of brass were upcycled to create two million pieces between rivets and buttons, sufficient to meet the demand for five seasons, from 2019 to 2021.

Sustainable packaging for underwear

Another significant sustainable project undertaken by Dolce&Gabbana involves the packaging of underwear. Through this project, the company successfully achieves 100% cotton recovery, transforming it into high-quality paper for packaging. The process encompasses several stages, from evaluating the feasibility of reusing the waste to processing the fibrous material, ultimately resulting in the creation of the first layers of regenerated paper. Moreover, Dolce&Gabbana is exploring the possibility of using these textile scraps to craft fabric bags and pouches for shoe storage.

Innovative machinery paving the way to a sustainable and circular production

Dolce&Gabbana doesn’t intend to stop here and is already working on additional projects for waste minimization and materials’ valorization. The company will introduce innovative machines that will automatically cut prints, eliminating the use of paper. Four of these machines will be allocated to Lonate and one to Sarmeola. Initially, children’s collections will be involved, as they have the potential to become locally sourced. The goal is to cut 100,000 pieces per season, and to re-use the waste generated from these processes to create bags and garment covers.

Dolce&Gabbana is demonstrating a visionary outlook and tangible dedication to sustainability. Through the adoption of ambitious and innovative projects, the company is contributing to shape a sustainable future for the fashion industry, proving that circularity is more than a mantra: it is a mission to be scaled at industrial level and deployed through ecosystem collaboration.

July 2023

Botteghe di Mestiere: The Dolce&Gabbana School of Artistry

Dolce&Gabbana’s Botteghe di Mestiere project is dedicated to training the next generation of master tailors, while celebrating the artistry and excellence of Made in Italy craftsmanship

Human Care & New Generation

Dolce&Gabbana’s love for Italy knows no bounds. Since their inception, Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana have been dedicated to preserving tailoring traditions, embracing the rich culture and values of Italy, and upholding the art of meticulous handmade craftsmanship. Their world is a fusion of traditions, artisanal mastery, culture, and the vibrant spirit of the Mediterranean. This passion gave rise to the successful Botteghe di Mestiere project, initiated in 2012 at the brand’s Legnano headquarters. The project’s mission is to celebrate Italian craftsmanship and impart the essential skills of the sartorial art to the next generation.

“We aspire to see these virtuous circles between artisanal know-how and contemporary creativity, between education and job opportunities, flourish wherever they may arise. In the world of fashion, we must all strive to safeguard the extensive and invaluable heritage of handmade craftsmanship, which is uniquely abundant in Italy.”

Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana

Love for handmade craftsmanship

Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana’s unwavering commitment to meticulous craftsmanship and the preservation of artisanal talent led to the creation of Botteghe di Mestiere. Established in 2012 in Legnano, this visionary project has expanded to include locations in Vaprio D’Adda, Sarmeola di Rubano, and Lonate Pozzolo.

Drawing inspiration from their childhood experiences, particularly Domenico Dolce’s early apprenticeship in “La Bottega,” these workshops serve as a haven for aspiring artisans. The goal of Botteghe di Mestiere is to impart the time-honoured traditions of tailoring, encompassing pattern-making, embroidery techniques, precise cutting, and meticulous pressing.

In this inspiring journey, Italian beauty plays a pivotal role. From the postcard-perfect landscapes of Portofino and Capri to the grandeur of Rome and the captivating allure of Sicilian black lace and majolica ceramics, these workshops embrace the rich heritage and cultural treasures that define Italy.

The fitting. The basting stitch. The interlining. Needle and thread. The cutting. Tailoring is an ancient craft. Crafted by hand. Touching, sewing, cutting. Most importantly, listening and observing. It’s the only way to learn.”

Domenico Dolce

Tailoring is an ancient craft, steeped in tradition

In the Botteghe di Mestiere, there is one fundamental rule: the teachers must be dedicated employees of Dolce&Gabbana, ensuring that the training remains in the hands of the skilled artisans within the tailoring workshops. Each location appoints a ‘master tailor’ who passionately imparts the advanced techniques of tailoring, preserving the art of cutting, embroidery, and pressing onto young individuals who wish to keep this tradition alive.

Upon completion of the course, approximately 60% of the students embark on a rewarding career within the company. This enables the brand to cultivate a team of talented embroidery and sewing professionals while transmitting work methods and cherished traditions. The core values of this training initiative lie in nurturing new generations, promoting the excellence of Made in Italy, and making a positive impact on the communities we serve.

“Training young individuals means providing them with opportunities, and we have always believed in the potential of young individuals. We believe in their abilities, knowing that they only need to learn and demonstrate their worth.”

Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana

Botteghe di Mestiere: The Selection Process

The selection process to join Botteghe di Mestiere and pursue the art of tailoring involves two avenues. Firstly, in actively seeking talent from renowned fashion schools such as ACOF Olga Fiorini, AFOL Moda, Istituto Burgo, Istituto Marangoni, Polimoda, IED Istituto Europeo di Design, and Koefia. Alternatively, aspiring candidates can also submit their applications directly through the Dolce&Gabbana website. Specifically targetted are junior profiles, individuals aged between 20 and 27, who have already completed their fashion education, ensuring a solid foundation for comprehensive training. By embarking on this educational journey, participants have the unique opportunity to preserve and celebrate the ancient craft, actively contributing to the preservation of Italy’s rich heritage of handmade craftsmanship.

“If you have a passion for your craft, being a tailor becomes a labour of love – it’s a profession that thrives, contrary to popular belief. It’s not just about the time it takes to create a jacket; it’s about the deep appreciation for your work and the sense of pride that comes from crafting something with your own hands.”

Domenico Dolce