Dolce & Gabbana

Dec 2023

The Dolce & Gabbana Holiday 2023 campaign serves as a masterclass in narrative tension, bridging the gap between high-octane luxury fashion and the soulful grit of Italian street life. Under the creative direction of Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana, photographer Sebastian Faena captures an intimate, cinematic atmosphere that feels both timeless and urgent. By utilizing a mix of black-and-white photography and natural light, the campaign leans into a chiaroscuro aesthetic that highlights the intricate craftsmanship of crystal-mesh dresses and ornate tailoring worn by models Adele Aldighieri and Hedi Ben Tekaya. The visual storytelling thrives on juxtaposition; sleek, shimmering silhouettes are placed against the backdrop of historic cobblestone squares and vintage scooters, while the recurring presence of traditional figures provides a grounding, reportage-style counterpoint to the glamour. With hair by Ward Stegerhoek and makeup by Vanessa Icareg, the portraits possess an editorial edge that emphasizes textural detail, from the glistening rhinestones to the sharp precision of a bob haircut. This project exemplifies a sophisticated lifestyle approach, where the interplay of reflections and cinematic framing transforms a standard holiday ad campaign into a compelling visual study of contrast. Through the lens of analogue film and careful composition, the imagery achieves a sense of romantic elegance that remains quintessentially Italian, securing its place as a standout within the modern luxury fashion landscape.

Editorial, Lifestyle, Cinematic

Natural light

Luxury Fashion Houses, Fashion