Dolce and Gabbana - Couture Debut

One would think keeping your guest list tight (cherished clientele, minimal journalists, a few celebrities like Scarlett Johanssen) would keep drama to a minimum... However the Italian design duo Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana did not disappoint.

The affair opened with theatrical opera (Bellini's Bel Canto).  The runway show itself was held in a former monastery.  Fashion was a mix of huge, romantic lace gowns and fresh bouquets of florals on crisp white dresses.  The summer stateside has been brutal, but Europe has not gone unscathed.  Two overworked tailors, couture customers and guests were reported to have fainted.  

The designers presented their statement against fast fashion.  Handmade Sicilian lace, painstakingly constructed suits and corsets and hand beaded embroideries reminded their guests what Italian luxury could be.

Photo: Jason Lloyd Evans and Greg Kessler courtesy of Dolce & Gabbana