This June, Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana lost a long-standing lawsuit that found them guilty of withholding about $540 million in taxes. The fine? One year and eight months in jail for both designers and a fine of about $454 million plus interest.
According to The Telegraph, Dolce and Gabbana will not be able to serve the sentence and pay the fine without closing down the business. Said Gabbana, "We are not going to give in to being crucified like thieves, because we are not. How could we accept being branded tax evaders? If we deserved the sentence, there would be nothing to say. But we do not deserve it, and so unfortunately we would have to close. Adds Dolce, "We will close. We will not be able to deal with it. [It's] impossible."
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The duo have extended a peace offering to meet with the mayor of Milan, Giuliano Pisapia, who recently accused the two of overreacting when they closed their Dolce & Gabbana stores and restaurants in a three-day protest over the verdict. Said Pisapia, "There are many things that are disgusting but I have never seen them close their doors over massacres, wars, and injustice." Though we're unsure of the legal standing a make-nice meeting has (none, we're guessing), the duo has two attempts to appeal until they need to serve their sentence. (Telegraph)
Photo: Courtesy of The Telegraph
