JOHN GALLIANO EXITS MAISON MARGIELA
Posted on by Cameron Tewson
John Galliano, the acclaimed designer celebrated for his transformative approach to fashion, is stepping down from his role as creative director of Maison Margiela, which he has held since 2014. This marks the conclusion of a decade that saw Galliano revitalising the brand, blending his theatrical flair with Margiela’s minimalist heritage to solidify its place in the high-fashion landscape.
During his tenure, Galliano injected new energy into Margiela’s legacy, elevating iconic pieces like the Tabi shoe, which became a global fashion staple. His leadership coincided with significant growth for the brand, with sales surging 23% in 2023 alone. His Artisanal 2024 collection, celebrated for its haunting “broken marionette” looks and Pat McGrath’s signature glassy, porcelain make-up, cemented his creative comeback. Custom versions of these designs dazzled at the 2024 Met Gala, worn by stars like Bad Bunny, Ariana Grande, and Gwendoline Christie.
Galliano’s career has been both illustrious and tumultuous. After his controversial departure from Dior in 2011, he embarked on a journey of redemption and sobriety, marking 14 years sober this year. His heartfelt farewell statement expressed profound gratitude to Margiela’s parent company, OTB, and its chairman, Renzo Rosso, for giving him a platform to rediscover his creative voice. Galliano also reaffirmed his dedication to slow, ethical fashion and praised his atelier team for their artistry and storytelling prowess.
Rumors about Galliano’s departure had circulated for months, making the announcement less of a shock to insiders. As speculation mounts about his next move, many predict he could return to his eponymous brand or take on a major role at a house like Chanel or Dior. Meanwhile, OTB is poised to continue Margiela’s legacy, with Rosso highlighting the robust foundation Galliano established over the past decade.
This moment represents both an end and a new beginning for Galliano, a designer who remains an enduring force in the fashion world, celebrated for his ability to craft compelling narratives through his creations.
