Domenico Dolce was born September 13, 1958, in Polizzi Generosa. Dolce is the son of a tailor. He grew up working at his father's clothing factory, drawing and sewing. He began studying science at a university but became bored. He dropped out to attend art school in Sicily. Upon graduation, he left Sicily and moved to Milan.

Stefano Gabbana was born November 14, 1962, in Venice, Italy. Gabbana was always interested in fashion. He studied graphic design at a fashion college. Then he moved away from the fashion industry and become an advertising art director after graduation. In 1980, he started to work in fashion again and was working for the
same fashion designer as Dolce.

Dolce and Gabbana met in 1980 where they worked as assistants in Milan. In 1982 they started a business together. Their first collection in 1986 won international acclaim, and their first boutique opened in 1989 in Japan. In 1990 they presented their first men's collection and opened their first women's boutique in Milan. In 1992 they added scarves, ties, beachwear, perfume, and accessories to their line.