Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana celebrate three decades of fashion, femininity and mediterranean flare.

What makes us most proud is we have managed to create a very recognizable style,” says Stefano Gabbana (far right), here with Domenico Dolce (left, in glasses).

When Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana opened their design studio in Milan in the early ’80s, they placed a sign out front that read, simply: Dolce & Gabbana. Today, 30 years after debuting their first collection, those two last names are known around the world, with wares spanning from leather goods to beauty products to jewelry.

“What makes us most proud is the fact that we have managed to create a very recognizable style,” says Gabbana, who originally studied graphic design before teaming up with Dolce, the son of a Sicilian tailor. “I’ll notice that a person might not even be wearing Dolce & Gabbana clothes, but their style is indeed Dolce & Gabbana.”

Without a doubt, Dolce & Gabbana’s distinct DNA, paired with an unwavering commitment to quality and craftsmanship, has served to keep the brand both relevant and recognizable over the years. “We strive to create a personal, special, and intimate experience for our customers,” says Dolce. “Our level of quality and attention to detail has become synonymous with the brand.”

And this attention to detail—from infinitely exquisite embroideries to delicate lace accents—goes beyond the needle and thread. In 2013, the designers began serving as creative directors for their ad campaigns, with Dolce behind the lens. “Becoming inspired, creating a sketch, deciding a mood or feeling, and then seeing it all come together when we personally shoot our campaign, it felt like things had come full circle,” Dolce says of the experience.

As for the next 30 years? The duo’s aspirations are still rather simple, according to Dolce. “We just want to keep working, and to continue doing what we love and create—hopefully— beautiful things.” Molto bene.