Born in 1958 and 1962 respectively, Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana have carved out more than just a niche in the fashion industry. Rather, the duo have built an empire based on what they see as dignified, yet raw and sensual fashion design.
The Italian designers came together in 1982 and were fobbed off early on as ''too young'' of all things. We wonder what those critics have to say now? Much of the style is said to come from Dolce's Sicilian origins, for which Madonna has become a big-time fan. D&G have even come up with designs for one of her world tours, which is likely to have helped them in a most positive fashion.

In 1982, the first D&G studio was opened, but it wasn't until 1985 until people took notice of the fashion house. At the Milano Collezioni fashion show in October of that year, Dolce and Gabbana were recognised as a promising new talent. A year later, the pair launched their first self-produced collection - real woman.

Then, in October of 1988, Dolce & Gabbana signed an agreement with Dolce Saverio, a clothing company owned by Domenico Dolce's family. This kick started the labels ready-to-wear range and gave them more freedom to create. The late 80s saw D&G clothes travel to Japan, where they showcased the label in Tokyo for the first time. Then came New York and the flood-gates to prosperity were opened.