After a 2011 Anti-Semitic rant in a Paris Café left John Galliano publicly disgraced, and dropped from his chief designer position at Dior, his biggest comeback to date has been his assistance with Oscar de la Renta’s 2013 Autumn/Winter Collection.
An early 2013 invitation to spend three weeks as a designer-in-residence at de la Renta’s atelier, brokered by Anna Wintour, enabled Galliano to add touches of trademark Dior style to some of de la Renta classic runway looks. When questioning Galliano’s influence on the collection’s design, Style.com explained: “Certain looks seemed very much to bear the Englishman’s hand, especially the opening jackets with their draped necklines and flaring hips; there was something of Dior’s classic Bar silhouette in them. Among the other clues that Galliano was in the house: The marcelled locks and deeply shaded, greasy eyes (one of four separate hair and makeup looks) were familiar from his Paris days.”
De la Renta, who has historically been one of Galliano’s most vocal supporters, has enthusiastically described his experience working with the designer, saying, “It’s so wonderful to have somebody with an eye. He’ll show me something and we talk about it. We have a great love affair.”
WWD has recently reported talks of Galliano assuming a more permanent position with Oscar de la Renta. However, any concrete plans have yet to be publicized. This Wednesday, Oscar de la Renta CEO Alex Bolen stated, “we are deeply impressed with John’s talent and would love to find a way to work with him in the future. To date, we have not found that way.”
In response to speculation that Galliano will be groomed to be de la Renta’s successor, the 81 year old designer has said, “Am I retiring? Is John going to replace me? Certainly not. I hope to be around for a long time.”
But if Galliano receives an offer from Oscar de la Renta, his June interview with Charlie Rose implies that he would be likely to accept such an offer. Galliano told Rose, “I’m able to create. I’m ready to create. I’m feeling fit. I’m feeling good. It really all depends on these steps that I’m taking. I hope that, through my atonement, I’ll be given a second chance.”
Do you think Galliano deserves a second chance? What do you think about the partnership of Galliano and de la Renta? Let us know in the comments below!