Dolce & Gabbana says Gabbana’s resignation won’t impact creative role

Italian fashion house Dolce & Gabbana confirmed on Friday that Stefano Gabbana, co-founder of the brand, stepped down as chair on January 1.

The company also said it would not comment on its debt situation “as negotiations with banks are still ongoing”.

“Stefano Gabbana has tendered his resignation, effective January 1, 2026, from his roles at Dolce & Gabbana Holding Srl, Dolce & Gabbana Trademarks Srl and Dolce & Gabbana Srl”, a statement said.

“The resignations have no impact on the creative activities carried out for the group by Stefano Gabbana,” it added.

The news was first reported by Bloomberg, which said the designer was also considering options for his roughly 40 per cent stake in the company ahead of negotiations with its bank lenders.

Dolce & Gabbana’s lenders are seeking an injection of up to 150 million euros in fresh funds as part of a broader refinancing of 450 million euros ($525.7 million) of debt, Bloomberg reported, citing sources. It added that the company was considering the disposal of real estate and the renewal of licences to raise money.

Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana founded the company in 1985 and they are still in charge of creative direction.