John Galliano Cryptically, Abruptly Departed Maison Margiela — What's Next?
This article was published on July 22 and updated on December 11 to reflect John Galliano's departure from Maison Margiela.
Over the summer, news of Peter Hawkings' departure from Tom Ford was immediately overtaken as social media simultaneously lit up with speculation that John Galliano would not renew his contract with Maison Margiela, where he has served as creative director since 2014.
The rumors proved true on December 11, when Galliano issued a lengthy statement on Instagram that clarified his departure from Margiela.
Galliano's next stop? Well, even the designer couldn't stop himself from stirring the pot.
"The rumors... Everyone wants to know and everyone wants to dream," he teased. "When the time is right, all will be revealed."
Miss Tweed — an independent, subscription-based publication that reports on rumors within the fashion and luxury goods sector — spoke to "several sources with knowledge of the matter" who alleged that Galliano is headed back to Dior, his former employer.
In 2011, Galliano was fired from Dior after making anti-semitic slurs, which were captured in a video that surfaced online. Galliano blamed the episode on alcoholism and sought rehabilitation.
If Galliano is indeed poised to re-join Dior, he could unseat Maria Grazia Chiuri, who has led the brand since 2016, or Kim Jones, who is rumored to be leaving Dior menswear.
Nothing is certain, however — shortly after Miss Tweed's report went live, Fashion Network claimed that Galliano is actually set to join Fendi. Still others suggest that Galliano is off to Chanel.
In other words: These are all just rumors. LVMH, parent company of Dior and Fendi, have not commented, nor has OTB Group, Maison Margiela's owner.
Over a decade after being shunned by the fashion industry, Galliano has made something of a comeback. His last couture show for Maison Margiela, presented in Paris in January, was lauded by critics for its unrestrained artistry.
At the Met Gala in May, Galliano dressed several high-profile celebrities including Zendaya, Kim Kardashian, Gwendoline Christie, and Bad Bunny. Still, the designer's reentry into the spotlight has proven to be divisive, as onlookers contemplate whether he deserves to be forgiven.
