Dolce & Gabbana presents a major exhibition in Milan

Dolce & Gabbana has presented its inaugural exhibition dedicated to the essence of its brand. Titled “Dal cuore alle mani: Dolce & Gabbana” (From the heart to the hands), this extraordinary showcase invites visitors on an enchanting journey into the realm of Italian luxury. Featuring more than 220 meticulously selected couture pieces, the exhibition offers a fascinating exploration of the brand's creative process and unparalleled craftsmanship. Held from April 7 to July 31, in collaboration with the city of Milan and the IMG Group, this major event transforms the illustrious Palazzo Reale, the historic royal palace located in the heart of Milan, near the iconic Duomo, into a captivating fashion paradise. and art.

“This is a unique exhibition,” commented French curator and historian Florence Müller. “Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana are the only couturiers who exhibit haute couture at this level by creating and presenting all their collections on the Peninsula, unlike other Italian designers who exhibit their haute couture creations in Paris,” she stressed.

“In their work, they focus everything on Italy. From the rich local craft traditions spanning several regions, which serve as inspiration and integrate seamlessly into their creations, to the realms of art, architecture, film, opera and monuments That is why we have placed his creations in an environment and an atmosphere that recalls all these references,” he explained.

Baroque grandeur and luxurious opulence epitomize the designers' work. Since the brand's establishment in Milan in 1985, Dolce & Gabbana has for the first time offered the public an unprecedented insight into its creative process, allowing admirers to intimately observe its meticulous attention to detail in ornamentation and finishing, as well as experience the sophistication. and the fervor that each garment gives off.

This immersive journey behind the house's curtains includes an exclusive visit to one of its high fashion and haute sartorial workshops, recreated for the occasion, where artisans and couturiers meticulously sew, cut and embroider, bringing their visions to life.

The exhibition unfolds in ten selected rooms, each outlined by opulent black curtains, offering an immersive journey into specific themes, sources of inspiration or distinctive craftsmanship, all portrayed through the lens of Dolce & Gabbana creations. Within these chambers, guests will find not only the brand's iconic pieces and accessories, but also a personalized selection of background tunes, designed to enhance the ambience. However, it is the sumptuous settings, crafted by Italy's finest craftsmen, that really steal the show.

For example, the art of mosaic takes center stage under the skillful hands of the Venetian master Orsoni. Here, a golden casket, formed from hundreds of shimmering tesserae, serves as the perfect pedestal for mosaic-covered dresses adorned with precious stones, sequins and micro-pearls.

Similarly, the historic tradition of glassmaking is given its due reverence within a room adorned by Murano's master craftsmen. As guests enter this realm, they are greeted by grand chandeliers and mirrors, reflecting dresses adorned with sparkling crystals selected by the visionary duo. The room dedicated to Sicilian heritage pays homage to the island's rich cultural tapestry, with its walls adorned with ceramic tiles hand-painted by the esteemed artisans of Fratelli Bevilacqua of Campofranco, located near Caltanissetta.

Other rooms recreate exceptionally different atmospheres, exemplified by the large hall covered in resplendent red, reminiscent of the illustrious Milanese opera La Scala. Here, amidst an opulent setting, haute couture creations mingle with customers. Before them, an exquisite collection of evening dresses pays homage to bel canto, with silk and satin ensembles adorned with intricate embroidery and cascading trains.

Equally notable is the meticulously designed space reminiscent of Palazzo Gangi in Palermo and the legendary ball scene immortalized by Luchino Visconti in his cinematic masterpiece, The leopard. This evocative setting serves as another source of inspiration for a Dolce & Gabbana couture collection, taking guests into a realm of timeless elegance and sophistication.

Furthermore, the exhibition seamlessly integrates modern technology, something evident in a room dedicated to Renaissance architecture and painting. Here, the static frescoes seem to come to life through enchantment. At the heart of this captivating space, exquisite garments replicate, employing weaving and tapestry techniques, some of the illustrious masterpieces of Quattrocento paintings, effortlessly uniting the realms of art and fashion.

Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana have also made efforts to involve contemporary artists, including Felice Limosani, Obvious Art, Alberto Maria Colombo, Quayola, Vittorio Bonapace and Catelloo. Through captivating videos strategically placed at the exhibition entrance, these artists offer their unique interpretations of the brand's essence, seamlessly blending past inspirations with modern creativity. This innovative approach serves to forge a meaningful connection between tradition and contemporary fashion, underscoring the brand's enduring relevance in today's ever-evolving landscape. Additionally, plans are underway to showcase the exhibition in several international metropolises.