Stefano Gabbana Steps Down as Chairman of Dolce & Gabbana
Stefano Gabbana is stepping down from his chairman position at Dolce & Gabbana four decades after co-founding the iconic fashion house with former partner Domenico Dolce.
The 63-year-old designer’s resignation was officially announced on Friday, April 10, with confirmation that he will remain involved in shaping the brand’s creative direction.
“As part of the natural evolution of its organizational governance, the Dolce & Gabbana Group has confirmed that Stefano Gabbana has submitted his resignation, effective January 1, 2026, from his roles within Dolce & Gabbana Holding Srl, Dolce & Gabbana Trademarks Srl, and Dolce & Gabbana Srl,” the company stated, as reported by Vogue.
The spokesperson further noted, “These resignations will not affect the creative work Stefano Gabbana continues to undertake for the group.”
Domenico’s brother, Alfonso Dolce, who serves as the CEO, took on the role of chairman in January. D&G boasts over 30 million followers on Instagram as it continues to elevate its brand with luxury clothing, shoes, jewelry, watches, perfumes, and cosmetics.
Vogue addressed speculation regarding Gabbana potentially selling his 40 percent stake. Reports suggest that the fashion house’s lenders seek to provide up to $175 million in new financing as part of a broader refinancing plan for the company’s significant debt of $525.7 million, according to Bloomberg.
To manage costs, executives at the luxury Italian brand are reportedly looking to divest real estate and renew licenses to boost financing.
“Regarding the debt situation, the group has no statement to make at this time, as discussions with banks are still in progress,” said the company in Friday’s announcement.
Bella Hadid criticized luxury fashion house Dolce & Gabbana in a pointed social media post. In response to an Instagram video shared by French fashion commentator Lyas, whose real name is Elias Medini, Hadid, 29, pointed out that Dolce & Gabbana have not adopted an inclusive brand ethos, further expanding on her views.
Gabbana made an appearance at the D&G show in February, where Madonna was a front-row guest. Such high-profile attendances have become a staple at their runway shows, just as Meryl Streep and Stanley Tucci recreated their iconic The Devil Wears Prada moments at their September 2025 event.
