For the Dolce & Gabbana Fall 2018 runway show, the set facade was an homage to the baroque Oratorio di Santa Cita church in Palermo, Sicily—the island of Domenico Dolce’s birth. The gilded altar gates swung open with the appearance of eight drones, each carrying a Dolce & Gabbana handbag. In a single file manner, the machines showcased Dolce’s latest accessory designs.

The designers called this their Fashion Devotion collection created with exquisitely crafted Vatican City vestment brocades, cut velvet and embroidery as well as profane slogans on sweatshirts and T-shirts. Odd D&G business-as-usual garments appear, notably, a zebra and horse, alongside breathtaking Venetian dresses, tailored suits and other strong offerings.

In the era of identity politics, the designers sincerely identify as Italian Catholics, as well as gay people. “I have been to church before each show,” Gabbana attested. “It’s just for me. But, you know, I do believe in God, and I believe in the Virgin. It’s only for me.”

The contradiction between crucifixes and corsets has been embedded in Dolce & Gabbana’s DNA. Virgin Mary icon–embroidered sweatshirts, slogans, and appliqués reading Queen of My Life went quite off the religious track.

Watch last minute touches at the Dolce & Gabbana Fall Winter 2018 Women’s Fashion Show.