Dolce & Gabbana are experts at staging iconic events, and this summers’ Alta Moda 2026 was celebrated in their usual spectacular style. The three-day couture event in Taormina, Sicily, wove together themes of Greek mythology, the divine feminine, and deep Sicilian devotion, a multi-event presentation unfolded across several venues: the Radicepura Botanical Park was the lush, blossom-filled backdrop for the 100-look womenswear show; the historic San Domenico Palace hosted the intricate Alta Gioielleria high jewellery presentation; and the ancient, cliffside Teatro Antico framed the Alta Sartoria menswear collection.
An elite, star-studded front row at the event included Monica Bellucci (above, left), Christian Bale, Sander Berge, and Erling Haaland. At La Plage Resort, overlooking the sapphire waters of Isola Bella, Jennifer Lopez (above, right) took the stage for an exclusive concert, performing her greatest hits ‘Waiting for Tonight’ and ‘Let’s Get Loud,’ alongside a surprise Italian rendition of ‘Il Cielo in una Stanza’ as a personal tribute to designers Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana – while her costumes included six custom Alta Moda outfit changes ranging from a glowing saffron coloured chiffon gown to a Baroque-inspired black lace veil and crystal crown…
Global tastemakers often draw inspiration from D&G’s signature themes, adapting them to create distinct ambience that moves beyond standard party styling. One such event designer is Diana Da Ros, who quite recently planned a 50th Birthday event on behalf of her good friend, celebrity hair stylist Carmelo Spina. Here we discuss the theme and her partners in this extraordinary occasion…
Carmelo Spina, my dear friend and celebrity hairstylist, has always loved Dolce & Gabbana. The brand perfectly reflects his personality and its deep connection to Sicily, his homeland. Rather than recreating a fashion campaign, I wanted to celebrate the authentic soul of Sicily, its traditions, colours, flavours and joyful spirit, through the unmistakable Dolce & Gabbana aesthetic. It was also meaningful that the celebration took place on September 21st, 2024, the World Day of Gratitude, making the evening a heartfelt tribute to Carmelo’s journey and the people who have been part of it…”
Diana Da Ros, International Wedding & Event Planner
C&B: “Diana – the idea of creating a Dolce & Gabbana themed party for your friend Carmelo was a great idea – out of all the amazing locations on the island, which venue did you choose, and why?”
DDR: “We chose the beautiful Castello di San Marco in Calatabiano – its history, timeless elegance and breathtaking architecture made it the perfect setting to honour both Carmelo’s Sicilian roots and Italy’s extraordinary cultural heritage…”
The dress code for Carmelo’s birthday was Dolce & Gabbana-inspired elegance combined with Mediterranean flair. Guests embraced the colourful theme which reflected the vibrant Sicilian atmosphere. The highlight of the evening was Carmelo himself, wearing a bespoke outfit created exclusively for him by Dolce & Gabbana…”
Diana Da Ros, International Wedding & Event Planner
C&B: “What were the key elements of the event and how long did it take to pull it all together?”
DDR: “The celebration took several months to design and organise. Every detail was carefully curated to create an immersive experience that reflected Carmelo’s personality while celebrating the beauty and traditions of Sicily. The décor featured warm Sicilian tones, yellow, red, orange, green and blue, combined with colourful ceramics, lemons and Mediterranean details. The result was vibrant, elegant and unmistakably Italian, perfectly capturing the spirit associated with Dolce & Gabbana…”
C&B: “The invitation is generally the first reflection of the upcoming event – what did you decide upon?”
DDR: “They were digital and included a bespoke event website. The elegant Italian design, with subtle Sicilian-inspired details, introduced guests to the atmosphere of the celebration from the outset…”
For me, luxury is about creating meaningful experiences. This celebration was much more than a birthday party, it was a heartfelt tribute to Sicily, its traditions, its people and its extraordinary beauty. Bringing together exceptional partners, authentic culture and personal storytelling made it an honour to create memories that will last a lifetime. The floral design was created by internationally acclaimed designer Tomas De Bruyne, with whom I always enjoy collaborating; he instinctively understands my creative vision and the client’s wishes. Roses and orchids were combined in lush floral arrangements inspired by the colours and fragrances of Sicily. We also worked with talented photographers Michael Zennaro and Marco Baio, and video-makers from Filmsdiary by Danilo Grassi, who each beautifully captured every unforgettable moment…”
Diana Da Ros, International Wedding & Event Planner
C&B: “A major aspect of any special occasion is the food and drinks – what did you have on the birthday menu?”
DDR: “Signature cocktails included fresh Sicilian citrus fruits and Mediterranean flavours, offering guests a refreshing welcome while perfectly complementing the concept of the evening. The menu celebrated authentic Sicilian cuisine, highlighting local ingredients and traditional recipes. Dessert was iconic Cassata Siciliana, followed by a live cannoli station where guests enjoyed freshly filled Sicilian cannoli…”
The entertainment for the evening celebrated Sicily from beginning to end. Carmelo made a spectacular entrance aboard a traditional Sicilian cart, welcomed by folk dancers and musicians. Emotional speeches from family and friends were followed by a breathtaking video mapping projection on the castle façade, transforming the historic building into a canvas of memories and gratitude…”
Diana Da Ros, International Wedding & Event Planner
CONTACT: http://www.dianadaros.com
*IMAGE top of page: Madonna wears ‘Bartolomea’ from the Dolce & Gabbana 2026 collection.
