Dsquared2

Dsquared2 is a Milan-based ready-to-wear brand founded in 1995 by the Canadian twin brothers Dean and Dan Caten, who remain its creative directors. It is known for men's and women's fashion, denim and accessories.

What is Dsquared2?

Dsquared2 is a fashion house founded in 1995 by identical twins Dean and Dan Caten, who are from Canada and based in Milan. The Catens are its creative directors.

History

The brothers launched a first womenswear collection, DEanDAN, in 1986 and moved to Milan in 1991, where they worked for Gianni Versace and Diesel. Diesel funded their namesake brand. A men's collection debuted in 1994, and a women's collection and a men's underwear line followed in 2003.

Products and positioning

Dsquared2 covers menswear, womenswear, footwear and accessories, positioned in the upper contemporary to designer segment.

Business model and distribution

According to the source reviewed, most revenue comes from licensing deals. Eyewear is licensed, first to Marcolin in 2008 and then under an agreement with Safilo Group in 2021. The brand operates stores in cities including Milan, London (opened 2015), Miami, New York and Los Angeles. Turnover was about EUR 200 million in 2013.

Ownership

The source reviewed describes the Catens as founders and owners and does not name a parent group. Ownership has not been independently verified for 2026, so none is stated here.

Why it matters

Dsquared2 is one of the most visible Italian-based brands led by its founding designers, and a notable example of a licensing-led fashion business.

Frequently asked questions

Who founded Dsquared2?

Dsquared2 was founded in 1995 by the identical twin brothers Dean and Dan Caten, who are from Canada and based in Milan.

Where is Dsquared2 from?

Dsquared2 is headquartered in Milan, Italy. Its founders, Dean and Dan Caten, are Canadian.

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