The change at the top of Dolce & Gabbana marks a turning point in the governance of the Italian fashion house: Stefano Gabbana would left the presidency of the group already in December 2025, but the news only became public in April 2026, as reported by Bloomberg. He was replaced by Alfonso Dolce, brother of Domenico Dolce and former CEO of the company.
The handover took place without any immediate official announcements and is part of an internal reorganization process involving both the group's governance and management structure.
Stefano Gabbana steps down as president of Dolce & Gabbana
The transition apparently occurred quietly, without immediate official announcement. According to reports, the decision dates back to late 2025 and was finalized in early 2026, but remained unannounced until the leaks spread.
The brand, founded in 1985 by Stefano Gabbana and Domenico Dolce, has remained for over forty years under the direct control of the two designers, becoming one of the most recognizable brands in international fashion. Its image has also been strengthened by relationships with celebrities such as Madonna, Beyoncé, Whitney Houston, and Monica Bellucci.
The two founders' last joint public appearance dates back to Milan Fashion Week in February 2026, during the women's show with Madonna as guest of honor.
Luxury crisis and financial pressure on the group
The change of presidency takes place in a context complex for the entire high fashion sectorBusiness newspapers report that the fashion house is facing a general slowdown in the luxury market, aggravated by geopolitical instability and tensions on international markets.
In this scenario, Dolce & Gabbana would be busy in negotiations with banks for the management of afinancial exposure estimated around 450 million euros. The transactions under consideration would include new credit lines and possible interventions on real estate assets and licenses to strengthen the group's liquidity, with the support of financial advisors such as Rothschild & Co.
Stefano Gabbana's future and governance
A further element that emerged concerns the personal position of Stefano Gabbana, which holds approximately 40% of the capital of the maisonRumors speak of a possible evaluation of the future of his participation, a scenario that could open up a phase of renovation wider than the governance Domenico Dolce also holds a similar stake, while the remaining capital is distributed among members of the Dolce family.
In the context of the possible reorganization, the name of also emerges Stefano Cantino, former manager of Gucci, indicated as a possible key figure in the new management structure, although there is no official confirmation yet.
