HISTORY

John Galliano originated from Gibraltar, before moving to England where he was singled out for his flamboyant dress sense. Accepting his differences and keen interest for the arts, he went on to study Fashion Design at Central Saint Martins, where the success of his graduate collection Les Incroyables, gifted his name to be one to talk about in the industry.

His brand encountered numerous peaks and troughs before his talent was recognised by Bernard Arnault and he was presented Creative Director of Givenchy in 1995, then Dior in 1997 by LVMH.

John Galliano received numerous awards from International Designer of the Year in 1997 and British Designer of the Year in 1987, 1994, 1995 and 1997.

Amongst all the highs, the biggest low was one erupting internally, however. And in 2011, Galliano’s leadership title of Dior was eradicated due to claims of antisemitic remarks and drug and alcohol abuse. This news shocked the entirety of the fashion industry, tarnishing John Galliano’s signature name and brand identity instantaneously.

He returned to fashion but in a more confidential address than his typical outlandish appearance. Working for the house of Oscar de la Renta in 2013, Galliano made his first steps back into the domain, avoiding the limelight and working backstage for the design team. “I am able to create. I am ready to create… [and] I hope through my atonement, I’ll be given a second chance.”

That second chance came in the arms of Maison Margiela, as John Galliano was appointed Creative Director in 2014, leading on the legacy of the fantastic Martin Margiela and opening the house up to a contemporary audience in his legendary dramatic facets.