The anticipation for Dolce & Gabbana’s Spring/Summer 2025 show was palpable, heightened by the news that the legendary Madonna would be gracing the event as a special guest. Before the show commenced, the air buzzed with excitement as Madonna’s iconic hits like “I Want You” and “Take a Bow” filled the venue. The moment she arrived, a storm of shutter clicks and flashing lights erupted, accompanied by thunderous applause, welcoming the pop icon to the runway.
The show itself was an ode to ‘Italian Beauty,’ as the theme declared. The stage unveiled a mirrored revolving staircase, setting the scene for a collection that celebrated feminine strength and Italian sartorial excellence. Models, adorned in Madonna’s signature cone bras, strutted down the staircase, their blonde curls cascading down their shoulders. The collection notes revealed the inspiration for the theme: “The iconic and powerful female figures made immortal by cinema over the years. Women who, while remaining true to themselves, asserted their individuality, played with their identity and turned their blonde hair into a trademark.”
The collection was a tribute to the timeless beauty of iconic blondes like Marilyn Monroe. While Madonna and Marilyn Monroe are undeniably American icons, the ‘Italian’ essence of the collection lies in Dolce & Gabbana’s signature ability to accentuate the female form through meticulous tailoring, exquisite fabrics, and impeccable craftsmanship. The collection showcased Italian beauty through the presence of popular models like Vittoria Ceretti and Mariacarla Boscono, embodying the essence of the theme.
The collection embraced a body-conscious aesthetic while offering a diverse range of fabrics and textures. Vibrant floral patterns, inspired by the brand’s archives, made a comeback, adding a touch of femininity to the designs. Delicate fabrics like tulle, satin, and lace balanced the bold statement of corsets and cone bras, highlighting a duality of strength and grace.
The show attracted a star-studded audience, including Maneskin’s Victoria De Angelis and Naomi Campbell, a frequent face on the Dolce & Gabbana runway. From South Korea, global ambassador Moon Ga-young and ATEEZ’s San graced the front row. Japanese idol and Snow Man member, Iwamoto Hikaru, made his presence known, sporting a cropped tuxedo with an open bow tie blouse, He shared his excitement about experiencing the show, stating, “I’ve always loved fashion. It’s still a dream to have seen a show in Milan for the first time.”
As the finale unfolded, Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana rushed to greet Madonna, sharing a hug and a cheek kiss, marking the end of a stunning show that blended iconic figures, classic Italian tailoring, and a celebration of feminine strength and beauty.
