John Galliano returns as Creative Director of Maison Martin Margiela
After four years away from the industry, fashion’s enfant terrible, John Galliano, is set to make his brilliant mark again with Paris-based, Margiela.
One of fashion’s immensely creative yet controversial designer, John Galliano, returns to the front line as Creative Director for Maison Martin Margiela. The announcement comes after weeks of speculation that Galliano was indeed headed to the Margiela house.
Renzo Rosso, president of Only The Brave (OTB) group – that owns Margiela – said in a statement that the Paris-based label ‘is ready for a new charismatic creative soul’. He further adds, ‘John Galliano is one of the greatest, undisputed talents of all time. A unique, exceptional couturier for a Maison that always challenged and innovated the world of fashion. I look forward to his return to create that fashion dream that only he can create, and wish him to here find his new home.’
The appointment may seem as a rather surprising move considering the house’s Belgian founder conscientiously kept his face hidden and away from the throngs of media while Galliano is more than revered for his flamboyant and outlandish showmanship – clearly something big or different must be brewing for the Margiela brand.
While this news spells a new direction for Margiela, it also marks Galliano’s return into the fashion industry. After an unfortunate and rather unceremonious removal of the designer from Christian Dior in 2011 for making anti-Semitic remarks, Galliano has been keeping a relatively low-profile, away from the limelight.
Now, he has no excuse to shy away because since news on his return hit the headlines like wildfire, the industry is giving the decision a huge thumbs up – as are we!
At Margiela, Galliano will oversee the design of all collection, including couture and women’s ready-to-wear. His debut is fairly imminent as well since he is expected to present his first designs during Paris Couture Week in January.
Tarandip Kaur
Photo: Patrick Demarchelier
