AceShowbiz -

Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana respond to the controversies surrounding their criticisms against non-traditional family. Despite the backlash, the two Italian renowned designers stand firmly by their statement.

They said, "We believe firmly in democracy and we think freedom of expression is essential for that. We talked about our way of looking at the world, but it was not our intention to express a judgment on other people's choices. We believe in freedom and love."

Gabbana previously said, "The only family is the traditional one. I am opposed to the idea of a child growing up with two gay parents." Dolce added, "I call children of chemistry, synthetic children. Rented uterus, semen chosen from a catalog."

This triggered an angry reaction from Elton John who has two children with his partner David Furnish through a surrogate mother. He fired back, "How dare you refer to my beautiful children as 'synthetic.' And shame on you for wagging your judgemental little fingers at IVF - a miracle that has allowed legions of loving people, both straight and gay, to fulfil their dream of having children."

Martina Navratilova applauded the singer, "Right on Elton and David. My D&G shirts are going in the bin - don't want ANYONE to wear them." Ricky Martin joined the critics, "@dolcegabbana ur voices R 2powerfull 2B spreading so much h8. Wake up. It's 2015. Luv urselves guys #boycottdolcegabbana."