Du Cœur à la Main – Dolce & Gabbana Exhibition opening in Paris. Story by Eleonora de Gray, Editor-in-Chief of RUNWAY MAGAZINE.: Dolce & Gabbana / Runway Magazine.

Paris, prepare to be mesmerized!

Starting tomorrow, Du Cœur à La Main: Dolce&Gabbana opens its doors at the Grand Palais, offering a once-in-a-lifetime journey into a world where fashion becomes art, and dreams take form. Dolce & Gabbana started this magnificent journey more than 10 years ago and in April 2024 for the first time presented the collection “From the Heart to the Hand” in Milan. 

With over 200 breathtaking creations from Alta Moda and Alta Sartoria – Haute Couture collections, this exhibition is a dazzling celebration of Italian heritage, unrivaled craftsmanship, and boundary-pushing creativity. Each room is an explosion of beauty—from the divine mosaics to the baroque splendor, every detail will leave you speechless.

Curated by Florence Müller and brought to life with spectacular scenography by Agence Galuchat, this is more than an exhibition—it’s a masterpiece you’ll never forget.

The Grand Palais in Paris has been transformed into a realm of unparalleled beauty, where fashion transcends its boundaries to become art. Du Cœur à la Main exhibition unveils the essence of Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana’s vision through breathtaking Alta Moda and Alta Sartoria creations. This journey through ten distinct chapters reveals a world of craftsmanship, tradition, and boundless imagination.

Handmade – Fatto a Mano

The journey begins with an exquisite homage to the Italian tradition of fatto a mano (handmade). Each garment in this chapter is a celebration of artisanal mastery, where regional crafts are seamlessly woven into the couture elegance that defines Dolce & Gabbana.

The embroidery radiates the vibrant hues of Capri’s iconic majolica tiles, while appliqués evoke the grandeur of Florence’s Palazzo Vecchio. The designers, Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana, collaborated with master craftspeople to encapsulate the essence of Italy’s rich heritage. These collaborations are reminiscent of the Italian Grand Tour, an eighteenth-century tradition where young European aristocrats explored the country’s artistic masterpieces.

Alta Moda’s creations displayed here draw inspiration from various regions. The reed basketry and trulli dwellings of Puglia are echoed in intricate inlaid embroidery and textile braids. Religious processions of Naples are immortalized in pieces that incorporate appliqué sculptures, evoking the ornate streets of Via San Gregorio Armeno.

Complementing the garments are accessories that reflect the spirit of la dolce vita—sunglasses, headscarves, and crop trousers that bring to life an era of timeless Italian elegance. Every ornament, from lace to trimmings, enhances the silhouette with a precision that reveals the skilled structuring of corsetry and draping.

Adding an intimate touch to this chapter is a series of self-portraits by French-born artist Anh Duong. In these works, created between 2012 and 2024, Duong captures herself in fantasy-like atmospheres wearing the most iconic Alta Moda and Alta Gioielleria creations. Her art interlaces seamlessly with the garments, reflecting the stylistic exploration of Dolce & Gabbana while evoking the splendor of Italy—from Taormina to Milan, Venice to Palermo.

As part of this breathtaking display, we see standout pieces from the Alta Moda Como Fall-Winter 2018-19 collection, and Alta Moda and Alta Sartoria September 2020. These garments, with their luxurious fabrics and unparalleled detail, exemplify the spirit of fatto a mano, reminding us that the soul of Italian artistry lies in the meticulous craft of its artisans.

Architectural and Pictorial Inspirations

As we move deeper into the exhibition, architecture and painting intertwine to create a harmonious celebration of Italian artistry. Inspired by the grandeur of Annibale Carracci’s frescoes and the architectural splendor of Rome’s Palazzo Farnese, this chapter reveals garments that echo the magnificence of Renaissance art.

Each creation embodies the shared stature of structure and decoration in Italian culture, showcasing Dolce & Gabbana’s profound admiration for masters like Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, Raphael, Titian, and Caravaggio. The designers’ Alta Moda, Alta Sartoria, and Alta Gioielleria collections become a visual homage to these legendary artists, blending their timeless beauty with the cutting-edge elegance of haute couture.

The room itself feels like stepping into a living masterpiece, with video installations of Annibale Carracci’s frescoes projected onto the walls and ceilings. Voluminous silhouettes mimic the sweeping curves of cathedral domes, while intricate patterns reflect the detailed mosaics and frescoes of Italy’s great palaces. The interplay between structure and embellishment is extraordinary—each garment feels like a meticulously constructed architectural marvel.

For Dolce & Gabbana, creating haute couture is akin to building a masterpiece. Like architects, the designers begin with sketches that outline the principal lines and volumes of the project. These ideas are brought to life in 3D patterns, painstakingly perfected in cotton before being translated into luxurious fabrics. The final touches—the intricate embroidery, appliqués, and embellishments—are the couture equivalent of the decorator’s hand, elevating each piece to an unparalleled level of artistry.

Walking through this chapter is like stepping into the heart of Renaissance Italy, where the worlds of architecture and painting converge. Every detail, from the fabric’s texture to the garments’ structure, speaks to the meticulous craftsmanship that defines Dolce & Gabbana’s vision. This room is not just a celebration of their artistry—it is a testament to the enduring legacy of Italian culture.

Dream of Divinity

The divine takes center stage in this chapter, where garments inspired by mythology and ancient temples transport visitors into a celestial realm. Dolce & Gabbana’s creations evoke the presence of gods and goddesses, blending Hellenistic influences with the grandeur of ancient Greek art. Dresses adorned with motifs from Attic pottery and shimmering details radiate a mythical aura, making each piece a tribute to the divine essence within every human being.

The setting is nothing short of extraordinary—a temple-inspired backdrop reminiscent of Sicily’s Temple of Concordia. This Hellenistic masterpiece, built between 440–430 BCE, is one of the finest examples of Doric architecture, rivaling even the Athenian Parthenon. The garments are displayed on the temple steps, their elegance magnified by the imposing structure behind them. The scene is a visual symphony of history and haute couture, each element amplifying the other’s grandeur.

Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana’s Fall/Winter 2019–20 collection serves as the cornerstone of this chapter, drawing inspiration from the myths immortalized on Greek pottery. The imagery of queens, goddesses, and gods bestows each creation with symbolic power, transforming fabric into narratives of beauty, strength, and divinity.

As part of this chapter, the fabulous pieces from Dolce & Gabbana Alta Moda Temple of Concordia Sicily Fall/Winter 2019–20 collection are on display. These garments, originally presented against the backdrop of the iconic temple itself, are a breathtaking embodiment of the designers’ vision. Every detail, from the flowing drapes to the intricate embellishments, is an homage to the artistry and grandeur of the ancient world.

Walking through this chapter feels like stepping into a dream—a world where mythology and reality merge, and the divine becomes tangible. It’s a celebration of human creativity, where fashion serves as a bridge between the timeless and the contemporary, the mortal and the godlike.

Divine Mosaics

In this chapter, the opulence of Byzantine art finds new life in the intricate, sartorial masterpieces of Dolce & Gabbana. The shimmering garments on display draw inspiration from the splendor of Italy’s mosaic heritage, transforming geometric and figurative decorations into breathtaking haute couture. The interplay of gold-thread embroidery and complex patchwork motifs evokes the timeless brilliance of Venetian glassmakers like Barbini and Barovier & Toso.

This dazzling display pays homage to two architectural marvels—the Cathedral of Monreale in Sicily and St. Mark’s Basilica in Venice. The F/W 2017–18 Alta Sartoria collection, originally presented in front of Monreale, is a highlight of this chapter. The garments reflect the twelfth-century craftsmanship of Monreale’s Byzantine mosaics, enriched by Arab and Norman influences. Tunics and coats embellished with intricate details mirror the cathedral’s gilded walls, celebrating the artistry of Sicilian mosaicists.

Equally mesmerizing are the pieces from the F/W 2021–22 Alta Sartoria collection, which draw inspiration from St. Mark’s Basilica and its Cosmatesque floors. These garments are adorned with scrolls, floral motifs, and mosaic-like patterns that bring the splendor of Venice to life. A luminous backdrop crafted by the Orsoni Venezia 1888 glass factory enhances the display, showcasing their revival of Byzantine techniques, including the famed “Gold of San Marco.” This historic Venetian furnace, central to the restoration of St. Mark’s Basilica, brings an authentic brilliance to the exhibition.

The crowning jewels of this chapter are the extraordinary pieces from the Dolce & Gabbana Alta Sartoria Venezia 2021 collection. Originally unveiled against the iconic Venetian skyline, these garments encapsulate the essence of Italy’s mosaic legacy. Each creation shimmers with a narrative of timeless beauty, blending history, craftsmanship, and innovation.

As you walk through this chapter, the radiant garments and sparkling mosaics create a visual symphony that captures the richness of Byzantine art. It is a celebration of Dolce & Gabbana’s ability to weave Italy’s artistic heritage into modern fashion, crafting garments that are as dazzling as the mosaics that inspired them.

Sicilian Traditions

This chapter bursts with the vibrant energy of Sicily, where the island’s rich heritage and storytelling traditions merge with the grandeur of haute couture. Dolce & Gabbana’s creations in this space evoke the colorful motifs of Sicilian carts and ceramics, transforming folklore into dazzling works of art. Each gown is a celebration of Sicily’s deep cultural roots, adorned with intricate patterns, dramatic crinoline corsets, and extravagant feathered headpieces.

Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana’s connection to Sicily is deeply personal, and this chapter reflects their admiration for the land of their ancestry. The influence of Sicilian ceramics, with their origins tracing back to Mycenaean times, is particularly prominent. The vibrant hues and intricate designs of ceramics from Caltagirone, Monreale, and Santo Stefano di Camastra are reinterpreted in the Alta Moda dresses, bringing the island’s artisanal traditions to life.

Central to this chapter is the iconic Sicilian cart, whose origins date back to ancient Greece but evolved into its current form in the nineteenth century. Originally a utilitarian vehicle, the cart became a vibrant symbol of Sicily’s culture, richly adorned with painted patterns and figures of legendary heroes. Craftsmen—including woodcutters, carvers, painters, and blacksmiths—contributed their skills to create these extraordinary vehicles, which played important roles in processions and wedding ceremonies.

The Alta Moda creations pay tribute to this legacy with bold, colorful designs featuring legendary characters such as Charlemagne and Saint George slaying the dragon. These heroic figures, symbols of chivalric spirit, reappear as motifs on the crinoline corset gowns. The high feathered headpieces recall the elaborate adornments of horses harnessed to the carts, adding drama and flair to the couture pieces.

Many of these stunning garments were first unveiled in the Dolce & Gabbana Spring Summer 2021 collection, presented in a spectacle that captured the soul of Sicily. Walking through this chapter feels like stepping into a vibrant Sicilian tapestry, where history, art, and storytelling come alive in every thread and embellishment.

This is not merely fashion; it is a celebration of a culture steeped in artistry, where tradition and innovation intertwine seamlessly under the masterful hands of Dolce & Gabbana.

White Baroque

An ethereal world of sculptural brilliance and monochromatic splendor unfolds in this chapter, a tribute to the grandeur of the Baroque period. Inspired by the masterful stuccowork of Giacomo Serpotta (1656–1732), Dolce & Gabbana transform the dramatic artistry of Sicilian churches into luminous couture creations. Each garment mirrors the intricate detailing and dynamic compositions of Serpotta’s work, evoking the feeling of stepping into a living sculpture.

Serpotta, famed for his stucco masterpieces in the churches of Palermo, developed a revolutionary technique known as allustratura, which gave his sculpted reliefs a glossy, marble-like finish. Dolce & Gabbana have ingeniously adapted this technique into fashion, crafting garments with duchesse satin and Mikado fabrics to replicate the same dazzling effect. The baroque figures, shaped with horsehair and wadding for volume, bring the opulence of Serpotta’s art to life, creating a seamless connection between the sartorial and the architectural.

The garments capture the dramatic tension of Baroque art, juxtaposing the simplicity of pure white with the extravagance of cherubs, volutes, niches, and pilasters. Billowing draperies and complex poses lend a sense of movement and theatricality to each piece, much like the dynamic sculptures that inspired them.

These extraordinary pieces were first presented at the Dolce & Gabbana Syracuse Alta Moda 2022 show, where they debuted against the backdrop of Sicily’s storied history. Their luminous effect and sculptural artistry turned the garments into modern-day baroque masterpieces, captivating all who beheld them.

Walking through this room is akin to wandering through a Baroque chapel, where every corner reveals another exquisite detail. The designers’ ability to translate the spirit of Serpotta’s art into fashion demonstrates their mastery of blending historical reverence with innovative craftsmanship.

This chapter is not just a celebration of the Baroque; it is a profound exploration of how fashion can elevate art to new dimensions. Dolce & Gabbana invite us to experience the drama, beauty, and sophistication of a bygone era through garments that shimmer like living marble, bringing history vividly to life.

Devotion

At the heart of Dolce & Gabbana’s creative universe lies a motif that embodies life, love, and passion—the Sacred Heart. This iconic symbol, both sacred and sensual, takes center stage in this chapter, radiating magnificence across dresses, handbags, and even perfume bottles. Lavishly embroidered and adorned with shimmering beads, the Sacred Heart brings an emotional intensity to every piece, reminding us that true creativity is born from the act of giving oneself fully to artistic expression.

Against a backdrop of gilded altars, this chapter transforms the Sacred Heart into a theatrical spectacle. Models adorned in golden garments stand against black backgrounds, evoking the sublime contrast and grandeur of Baroque art. Inspired by the contrapposto figures of seventeenth- and eighteenth-century wooden sculptures, these creations are infused with voluptuousness, embodying the mystic fervor and overwhelming splendor that define Dolce & Gabbana’s work.

The garments showcased here are part of the Alta Moda, Alta Sartoria, and Alta Gioielleria collections, each a unique work of wearable art. First presented in collections from 2018 through 2021, the Sacred Heart motif has transcended haute couture to become one of the brand’s most enduring symbols. It continues to inspire ready-to-wear pieces, appearing on beloved handbags, sneakers, and even casual attire, making it a cherished icon for Dolce & Gabbana devotees around the world.

This chapter is not merely a showcase of couture; it’s a celebration of devotion in all its forms. The Sacred Heart stands as a testament to the designers’ quest for excellence and their ability to fuse sacred iconography with modern-day fashion. Walking through this room feels like entering a sanctuary where art, faith, and craftsmanship converge in breathtaking harmony.

Few symbols in fashion have achieved the timeless appeal of the Sacred Heart, which remains a cornerstone of Dolce & Gabbana’s legacy. Its enduring popularity across collections is a testament to its ability to resonate deeply, capturing the essence of life, love, and the sublime beauty that defines this extraordinary brand.

Ateliers, Ornaments, and Volumes

This chapter invites visitors into the sacred heart of Dolce & Gabbana’s creative process—the ateliers where dreams are transformed into breathtaking reality. These workshops are not just spaces; they are the lifeblood of the Alta Moda, Alta Sartoria, and Alta Gioielleria collections. It is here, in the hands of 120 master artisans, that the designers’ visions take form, interpreted with unparalleled skill and expertise.

The ateliers in Milan, set within a serene, tree-lined courtyard, are both cutting-edge research hubs and custodians of traditional craft techniques. Every garment begins as an idea, a sketch, a whisper of inspiration that evolves through processes steeped in both innovation and heritage. Techniques like cross-stitch embroidery and the “collage” method—transposing images from nature or art history onto fabric—merge modern creativity with time-honored artistry, producing garments that are as revolutionary as they are timeless.

For Dolce & Gabbana, the form of a garment must glorify the body’s sculptural beauty, and black serves as the ultimate canvas for this philosophy. This chapter prominently features black dresses in progress, offering a glimpse into the evolution of pieces that embody purity and essence. Black, deeply rooted in Italian culture, carries profound significance. It is the color of working-class women’s attire, Venetian veils, and the Sicilian widow in Neorealist cinema. Yet, for Dolce & Gabbana, black transcends its traditional connotations to become a medium of individuality and expression, affirming each woman’s unique personality.

Adding a touch of immediacy to this chapter, parts of the atelier have been relocated to the exhibition itself, allowing visitors to witness the artisans at work. Embroiderers meticulously stitch elaborate patterns, jewelers craft intricate designs, and glassmakers shape shimmering Murano creations, bringing the magic of Dolce & Gabbana’s craftsmanship to life before your eyes.

The garments on display are more than fashion; they are masterpieces of devotion and precision. Every bead, stitch, and fabric cut tells a story of artistry and dedication. This chapter is a rare opportunity to honor the hands and minds that make Dolce & Gabbana’s vision a reality—a celebration of those who transform couture into a symphony of elegance and beauty.

Walking through this space is an emotional experience, a testament to the magic of human ingenuity and the enduring power of tradition. In these ateliers, history, art, and craftsmanship converge, creating garments that are nothing short of extraordinary.

Opera

In the enchanting world of Dolce & Gabbana, theater and real life intertwine in a shared celebration of beauty. This chapter is a homage to the grandeur and drama of Italian opera, where Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana draw inspiration from the stage to transform their haute couture into a symphony of passion and extravagance. For the designers, opera represents the ultimate expression of dramma all’italiana, a powerful medium to explore the most extreme human emotions.

The collection showcased in this chapter draws from legendary operas: La Traviata, Aida, Attila, Rigoletto, and Don Carlo by Giuseppe Verdi; Norma and The Capulets and the Montagues by Vincenzo Bellini; Tosca, Madame Butterfly, and Turandot by Giacomo Puccini; and many more. Each garment encapsulates the spirit of its opera, embodying the drama, romance, and grandeur of these timeless masterpieces.

The setting itself is a theatrical spectacle, evoking the ambiance of an Italian-style theater. Models draped in breathtaking costumes are arranged around a lavish banquet table, symbolizing the conviviality of a shared meal—a theme close to the designers’ hearts. The table, laden with sumptuous details, mirrors the opulence of the stage and the grandeur of opera houses.

The pieces on display were first presented at the Alta Moda 2019 show at La Scala, Milan’s iconic opera house. This landmark collection featured garments designed for characters of 12 operas, blending the elegance of metallic brocades, delicate lace, and three-dimensional macramé. Accessories, headdresses, and intricate jewelry elevated each costume into a work of art, where every detail became an ode to the magic of opera.

“We have always loved the opera and its heroines,” shared Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana. “They enchant us every time they move on the stage because they represent a timeless dream, where feelings always triumph.” This passion is evident in the designers’ meticulous craftsmanship, with each creation reflecting their deep reverence for the art form.

Walking through this chapter feels like stepping into an operatic dream, where Dolce & Gabbana have turned their love for music and theater into an unparalleled visual feast. It is a celebration of Italian artistry at its most extravagant—a place where fashion, music, and emotion converge in breathtaking harmony.

The Art and Craft of Glassworking

This chapter immerses visitors in the luminous world of glass artistry, where garments, mirrors, and chandeliers engage in a dazzling interplay of reflections. Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana have long drawn inspiration from the storied glassmaking traditions of Venice, and here they pay tribute to this exceptional craft with sartorial creations that shimmer like Venetian crystal.

Central to this chapter are the pieces from the Alta Moda 2021 collection, presented before the Doge’s Palace in Venice. These garments, delicately adorned with crystal embroidery, celebrate the unparalleled artistry of Murano glassmakers and their centuries-old legacy. Fabrics with mirror-like surfaces and shimmering silver details mimic the glitter of chandeliers, creating a visual symphony that captures the magic of Venetian craftsmanship.

Glassworking on Murano, dating back to the thirteenth century, has long been a symbol of Venetian excellence. Angelo Barovier’s development of the famous “Venetian crystal” in 1455 revolutionized the craft, earning Venice worldwide acclaim. By the sixteenth century, Venetian mirrors had become the epitome of luxury across Europe, their fame enduring even through the city’s later decline. The revitalization of this tradition in the twentieth century by Nicolò Barbini and its continuation today by Vincenzo and Giovanni Barbini ensure that Murano glass remains a shining example of artisanal virtuosity.

This chapter also showcases masterpieces from the Barbini collection and chandeliers by Barovier & Toso, a family business established in 1295 and one of the oldest artisanal companies in the world. The glittering glass embroideries on the garments reflect the brilliance of these chandeliers and mirrors, creating a dialogue between fashion and glasswork that is as mesmerizing as it is elegant.

Walking through this chapter, visitors are enveloped in a world of light and reflection, where the craftsmanship of Murano glassmakers meets the artistry of haute couture. Dolce & Gabbana transform the magic of glass into wearable art, celebrating a tradition that has shaped the cultural and artistic identity of Venice for centuries.

Du Cœur à La Main: Dolce&Gabbana
(From the Heart to the Hands: Dolce&Gabbana)

Curated by Florence Müller, with scenography by Agence Galuchat, this extraordinary exhibition unfolds at the Grand Palais in Paris during the prestigious Haute Couture fashion week. Running from January 10 to March 31, 2025, Du Cœur à La Main is more than an exhibition—it is a breathtaking celebration of art, history, and unparalleled craftsmanship.

At its heart, this showcase is a testament to the magic of Italian artistry and the devotion of the hands that bring Dolce & Gabbana’s Alta Moda creations to life. Every piece embodies pure art and the soul of traditional handmade techniques, blending centuries of cultural heritage with visionary design.

Walking through From the Heart to the Hand is an unforgettable experience. Each garment is more than couture—it is a masterpiece that tells stories, evokes emotions, and inspires dreams. This exhibition is a love letter to Italian culture, a tribute to the boundless creativity and passion that unite history, fashion, and art in perfect harmony.

Don’t miss your chance to witness fashion history redefined. Make your reservation now at expositiondolcegabbana.com.

Be part of the magic…