Dolce&Gabbana have been a pioneer in luxury fashion for so long, and with good reason. Recognised for their conspicuous maximalism, the Italian luxury house has become synonymous with elaborate animal prints, bold patterns and detailed embroidery that exude confidence and personality.
Tailoring has also been a long-standing forte of Dolce&Gabbana, particularly for its menswear collections. This was evident in the house’s latest showing of the men’s fall/winter 2023 show, which saw traditional menswear tailoring spliced with innovative proportions and unconventional detailing. Luxurious Italian silks were used to construct the peaked lapels of blazers, and exaggerated corsets along with micro-shirts and double-waisted trousers all played on traditional menswear silhouettes. Models also strutted down the runway in exaggerated fur ensembles, from a supersized coat to a matching set that would no doubt be a conversation starter for any occasion.
The colour palette for the collection stayed rather monochromatic, exploring subdued hues of cream, coin and ash. There was a strong outing for fashion’s favourite colour as well, with a strew of all-black looks driving home a sense of allure and mystery that seamlessly captured the design codes and ethos of the brand.
Aside from runway favourites, Dolce&Gabbana is also greatly lauded for its wide range of wardrobe essentials, from sartorial staples such as printed T-shirts and distressed denim jeans to everyday accessories like sneakers and nylon totes. There are also classic suiting options, silk joggers and patent leather derby shoes for elegant evening affairs. An extensive selection of delectable leather goods are available as well, in supple Italian calfskin leather that showcases the savoir-faire of the artisans at the house.
For those spoilt for choice, here’s where we come in. In another instalment of Vogue 10, Vogue Singapore has tailored an edit of must-have menswear items to snag from Dolce&Gabbana’s latest few collections. Curated by editor-in-chief Desmond Lim and featuring exclusive styling tips, here are his top 10 highlights:
1 / 10
Glossy patent leather derby shoes
“Everybody needs a classic pair of black leather derby shoes. The glossy patent leather adds an extra touch of sophistication and flair to a timeless wardrobe essential.” remarks Lim.
Styling tip: “The footwear of choice for any work event or fancy date night out. Deck yourself out with a crisp, white poplin shirt and tailored suit to look your best.”
2 / 10
Straight-leg patchwork denim jeans
“This pair of denim serves as the perfect conversation starter, with its unique patchwork detailing and tasteful distressing,” muses Lim. “It seamlessly encapsulates everything to love about streetwear and its indisputable impact in luxury fashion.”
Styling tip: “Opt for a canadian tuxedo situation—pair this number with the Dolce&Gabbana patchwork denim jacket, or wear a simple white T-shirt tucked in and let the jeans do the talking.”
3 / 10
Stretch patchwork denim jacket
“One of my personal favourites from recent collections, the two-toned nature of this jacket makes for a great statement piece that will go with most ensembles. Denim trucker jackets have been in the style zeitgeist for a while now, and with good reason.” notes Lim.
Styling tip: “With its relatively cropped nature, wearing exaggerated wide-legged trousers or flared bell-bottoms would make for an interesting silhouette. For footwear, a pair of vintage boots ought to do the trick.”
4 / 10
Medium calfskin DG LOGO camera bag
“The colour white seems to be having a resurgence at the moment, and this Dolce&Gabbana camera bag in supple calfskin leather proves why. Its size allows for versatility and functionality, a great bag for everyday use.” states Lim.
Styling tip: “For a bold look, try an all-white ensemble with this bag. Otherwise, keep it casual with your favourite printed T-shirt, sweatpants and trusty sneakers.”
5 / 10
Jute Portofino sneakers
“Everyday loves a nude or earth-toned pair of sneakers, and this pair of Jute Portofino sneakers are the perfect option,” remarks Lim. “The thick rope laces are an added detail to an otherwise classic silhouette.”
Styling tip: “Keep to minimal, subdued pieces for a tasteful outfit that works for all occasions. This pair of sneakers can be easily dressed up or down, by simply swapping out tailored trousers for a pair of baggy sweatpants.”
6 / 10
Ripped denim jeans
“The wash of this pair of jeans is very unique and truly remarkable. Tons of texture and finishing details that mimics a vintage pair of denim.” notes Lim.
Styling tip: “At a time where the skinny silhouette seems to be out, a slim-fitting pair of jeans is refreshing to look at. Wear this with a silk shirt, leather jacket and pointy-toed boots for a chic outfit that screams all things fashion.”
7 / 10
DG Roma Monete cotton knitted T-shirt
“The trompe-l’oeil print on this T-shirt highlights the masculine maximalism that Dolce&Gabbana does so well,” remarks Lim. “Its boxy cut is flattering to most body types, and the thick collar and elongated sleeves encapsulates the current style zeitgeist.”
Style tip: “Let the T-shirt remain as the standout piece, build around it with a loose, casual fit. An oversized black blazer, baggy denim and mules proves a strong outing.”
8 / 10
DG silk woven shirt
“The sheer nature of this silk woven shirt shows that menswear can be sensual and playful too, and that there is nothing wrong with embracing what is traditionally considered feminine.” shares Lim.
Styling tip: “The complementary colours to purple are green and yellow, so opt for vibrant summer shades that bring forth a cheerful and relaxed colour palette often overlooked in menswear.”
9 / 10
Five pocket ripped jeans
“The meticulous distressing showcases the expert craftsmanship and level of attention to detail by the atelier,” muses Lim.
Styling tip: “The perfect pair for all streetwear lovers, embrace logomania and wear this with other statement pieces from Dolce&Gabbana. Its heavy distressing and wash also brings back the nostalgia of the rock-n-roll era.”
10 / 10
Tailored double-breasted wool jacket
“Dolce&Gabbana has always been lauded for their tailoring, and this double-breasted wool blazer shows why,” notes Lim. “The exquisite labels and nipped-in waist creates an elegant silhouette that remains timeless and flattering on anyone.”
Styling tip: “This blazer would pair perfectly with suit trousers and the patent leather derbies mentioned earlier. Alternatively, wear it with a pleated skirt or statement trousers for an eclectic ensemble fit for fashion week.”
