Designer Dominnico on emancipatory creations, genderless fashion, and collaborating with Rosalía and Beyonce

Alicante-based designer Domingo Rodríguez Lázaro, better known as Dominnico, explained that with his fashion he not only wants to dress people but also convey values. In that sense, he pointed out that what music stars like Rosalía, Lady Gaga, Dua Lipa, or Beyoncé seek when they wear his garments is to send "a message of strength."

In an interview with EFE prior to presenting his futuristic "Dildom" collection at 080 Barcelona Fashion on Thursday, Dominnico stated that it is a "pleasure" for him that celebrities like Rosalía, Lady Gaga, Dua Lipa, and Beyoncé choose to wear his designs. 

"When it comes down to it, I think we share similar aesthetic codes and they see in my clothes the ability to convey values such as strength," said the designer, who was born in Alicante in 1994. He also mentioned that he has an upcoming international collaboration that will be announced later this month but kept it confidential for now.

On Thursday, Dominnico presented his latest collection at 080 Barcelona Fashion, and once again showcased his fascination with the world of motor fashion. The collection featured jackets, skirts, and wide pants made of natural leather and nylon, revisiting his iconic looks that have already captured the attention of 'motomami' Rosalía in the past.

One of the novelties showcased in the collection was the use of Himalayan goatskin, nylons, and neoprene in miniskirts and mini-dresses. The collection also featured shoes and boots from the Spanish fashion company Cuplé.

The colour palette was kept predominantly monochromatic, with black and white hues, complemented by pastel shades of pink and blue, and vibrant colours such as fluorescent orange and red.

Dominnico explained that his latest collection has "subtle nods to BDSM and the sexualization of bodies." 

The designer cited a range of inspirations for his latest collection, from the Dadaism of Marcel Duchamp to the conceptual art of Jake and Dinos Chapman, as well as the distinctive aesthetics of Stanley Kubrick's "A Clockwork Orange".

"In this collection, I wanted to express the importance of freedom of expression, not only in fashion but in society as a whole. As a designer, I strive to represent diversity and inclusivity, and not simply blend in with the crowd," he continued.

Similarly, Dominnico is one of the leading proponents of "agender" or "genderless" fashion in Spain. His designs reject the idea that clothing is inherently masculine or feminine, and instead, he believes that "it can be whatever the person who wears it wants it to be."

His fashion show featured Lorena Durán, a "curvy" model whose body does not conform to the traditional 90-60-90 measurements.

In order to cater to a diverse range of body types, the brand has also expanded its size range. Dominnico noted that this approach has been successful, particularly in the rapidly growing US market.

When asked about his opinion on the future of fashion, particularly on whether it will lean more towards reusable garments or "fast fashion", which can be a divisive topic, Dominnico expressed his belief that both will continue to coexist. He acknowledged that "not everyone has the same economic opportunities", and therefore, some may prefer cheaper and more accessible options.

The designer often mentions his humble beginnings and how he learned to sew by dressing his Bratz dolls while watching his mother mend garments at home.

His brand has undergone a significant business revolution in the past year, and he admits feeling somewhat overwhelmed by the changes. However, Dominnico is determined to surround himself with the right people and resources to continue growing his project.

Dominnico, who is one of the standout designers at this year's 080 Barcelona Fashion event, alongside Eñaut and Yolancris, received his formal training in design and fashion at LCI Barcelona and received an emerging designer award at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Madrid in 2019. This recognition kickstarted his collaboration with Rosalía, with whom he debuted on the singer's "El Mal Querer" tour.