A bombshell. Last night, Bloomberg reported that Stefano Gabbana had resigned as chairman of Dolce&Gabbana, the fashion house he founded in 1985 with Domenico Dolce. According to the American media outlet, the designer is also reportedly considering selling his approximately 40% stake in the company. Gabbana reportedly stepped down from his role last December, replaced by Alfonso Dolce, Domenico’s brother and the brand’s current CEO.
An ongoing restructuring and new leadership
This change must also be analyzed in light of rumors that have surfaced in recent days regarding the possible arrival of Stefano Cantino, former CEO of Gucci, to a key position within the brand. This significant move confirms the group’s restructuring phase, as it faces financial difficulties exacerbated by weak demand for luxury goods.
Following the publication of this information by Bloomberg, which was quickly picked up by the Italian and international press, the house issued an official statement confirming Stefano Gabbana’s resignation from his executive roles within the Dolce&Gabbana group, while emphasizing continuity on the creative front. “As part of a natural evolution of its organizational and governance structure, the Dolce&Gabbana Group confirms that Stefano Gabbana has resigned, effective January 1, 2026, from his positions within Dolce&Gabbana Holding Srl, Dolce&Gabbana Trademarks Srl, and Dolce&Gabbana Srl,” the company stated in a press release on Friday. “This resignation will have no impact on the creative activities carried out by Stefano Gabbana on behalf of the group,” the company added.
Negotiations with creditors and refinancing strategy
The other founder holds an equal stake, while the remainder is divided among Alfonso, Domenico, and their sister Dorotea. In the coming days, the company is expected to negotiate with banks for a capital injection of 150 million euros, as part of a broader strategy aimed at securing 450 million in refinancing. Also on the table, according to Bloomberg, are the potential sale of real estate assets and the renewal of licenses to bolster liquidity. The announcement of Gabbana’s departure comes at a crucial juncture for the group, which is engaged in new negotiations with its creditor banks.
In 2025, the group refinanced €300 million in debt maturing in February 2030, securing an additional €150 million to support its expansion in the beauty and real estate sectors. However, the escalation of the conflict between the United States and Iran has complicated the situation for a luxury brand that had heavily invested in a historically wealthy region, the Middle East, which has now been under bombardment for a month. In late 2024, Dolce&Gabbana had announced a project in Saudi Arabia as part of its expansion strategy in the Gulf. In collaboration with its partner Diryah Gate Company, the Italian group had developed a brand experience project featuring a space of over 2,000 square meters located in the Diriyah region, a lifestyle destination comprising retail spaces, luxury hotels, and entertainment venues.
Regarding the debt issue, the company has nothing to report at this time, as negotiations with the banks are still ongoing.
The intact legacy of an iconic duo
Dolce&Gabbana was founded by the two designers while they were also romantically involved. Although they have long since parted ways, their professional partnership has never wavered. The brand’s stylistic codes are inimitable; in addition to ready-to-wear and haute couture collections, the duo has created a true lifestyle universe that encompasses beauty, eyewear, jewelry, and interior design.