John Galliano exits Maison Margiela, where he got a ‘second chance’ after Dior ouster

John Galliano exits Maison Margiela, where he got a 'second chance' after Dior ouster

As I delve deeper into the captivating narrative of Martin Margiela, I am left in awe at the transformative journey this artist has embarked upon. His resilience and determination to rise above adversity are nothing short of inspiring.

After a ten-year stint, John Galliano – the trailblazing designer who once led creativity at Givenchy and Christian Dior – is departing from Maison Margiela, the prestigious French fashion brand he had been leading.

As a film enthusiast, I’m sharing some personal news today – I’ve decided to bid farewell, and I did so via Instagram on a Wednesday. My team at Maison Margiela had already been made aware of my departure before our company Christmas party, as Women’s Wear Daily reported. This decision also signifies the conclusion of an extraordinary partnership with Renzo Rosso, the visionary behind Diesel who has since become an Italian fashion titan. His OTB Group, which oversees Maison Margiela, Marni, and Viktor & Rolf, was our shared creative home.

John Galliano’s first TV sitdown, the cheat sheet

June 13, 2013

In a lengthy utterance, the renowned yet contentious artist expressed his gratitude for “this lifesaving creative opportunity and the secure environment we’ve collectively constructed,” as well as the “second chance” bestowed upon him by Rosso and Martin Margiela.

He expressed overflowing joyful gratitude, and his spirit radiated happiness, as he penned down his thoughts. This was because he turned 14 years old that day – 14 years of being sober. He found himself living a life far greater than any dream he ever had.

Despite Galliano not revealing his future plans, the extravagant fashion designer hinted at sharing more details later on. As for who will take over from Galliano at Maison Margiela, the company has yet to announce any successor. However, since Galliano joined in 2014, the luxury brand has experienced remarkable growth with sales soaring by 24% in 2022 and an impressive 23% increase in 2023, as Vogue magazine reported.

In simpler terms, “The rumors… Everyone is curious and hopes for more, he wrote. When the moment arrives, everything will be disclosed. For now, I’d like to express my heartfelt thanks. I am still making amends, and I will never cease to dream. I also yearn for dreams.

John Galliano exits Maison Margiela, where he got a 'second chance' after Dior ouster

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Each time I recall my previous notion of midlife – that monotonous field filled with dull fabrics – a fit of laughter escapes from within me.

Oct. 8, 2024

During his career, Galliano adorned various celebrities with his designs, such as Kim Kardashian, Zendaya, Gwendoline Christie, Miley Cyrus, Ariana Grande, Jennifer Lawrence, Rihanna, and Katy Perry for different red-carpet appearances. For instance, he dressed Kim Kardashian, Zendaya, and Gwendoline Christie at the 2024 Met Gala, as well as Miley Cyrus at this year’s Grammy Awards. Additionally, he has styled these stars for other high-profile events.

In a post on his Instagram, Galliano reminisced about his tenure at Maison Margiela (previously Maison Martin Margiela), expressing gratitude for being entrusted with the stewardship of this exclusive brand. The mysterious founder handed him the reins and advised him to draw upon the essence of the House, safeguard himself, and mold it according to his unique vision.

Galliano’s new appointment marks a significant shift in his life and profession, following a challenging period. Previously, the designer, who has openly discussed his struggles with substance abuse, was dismissed by Dior and expelled from his own label after making offensive remarks that were considered antisemitic and racist in Paris during 2010 and 2011. These incidents led to legal proceedings in a French court.

In a two-page statement, Galliano lamented the departure of JG and his former self, stating he’s now living a happier life as he continually works towards improving himself. He also acknowledged his appreciation to Rosso for offering him the artistic director role at Margiela following a challenging phase in his existence. (Notably, Galliano’s career was showcased in the 2024 documentary “High & Low.”)

A post shared by John Galliano (@jgalliano)

In the presence of Rosso and Margiela, Galliano expressed that the most priceless, reviving gift he bestowed upon me was enabling me to rediscover my creative spirit when I felt silenced. With my wings healed, I gained a deeper appreciation for the intense, absorbing nature of creativity itself. He declared that he had an enlightening moment and now feels prepared.

As a movie enthusiast, I’d make sure to immerse myself among peers who share my passion and dedication. I appreciated Renzo’s generous invitation, but first, I needed to focus on my recovery – which I did, successfully. A decade has passed, and I can’t thank him enough for providing a secure environment where I could thrive creatively and form a new, supportive family. Though the film industry remained much the same back then, my outlook on it has transformed dramatically. Now, I see signs of change everywhere: kindness, empathy, and an increased focus on compassion.

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John Galliano to Vanity Fair: ‘I was made to believe I wasn’t right’

June 17, 2013

He acknowledged that he can be tough and hard to keep up with when faced with competition, but look at what we’ve achieved together, he stated. This unity within our family – the fashion industry – thrives most when we uplift each other instead of criticizing. When we extend understanding, forgive, and guide one another towards recognizing mistakes. It takes courage to unlearn, to educate ourselves anew from past experiences – for many societal norms dictate this – to share feelings, empathize, and practice kindness.

In January 2015, John Galliano returned to prominence and unveiled his inaugural runway line for Maison Margiela. Towards the end of London Men’s Fashion Week, he presented a compact couture collection on a runway to an exclusive gathering of 100 individuals. His recent work, the viral spring 2024 Maison Margiela Artisanal show, garnered widespread acclaim in January. This event, marked by Pat McGrath’s viral glass-like makeup, was praised by WWD for rekindling “full-throttle creativity” within the fashion industry and elevating Galliano to the pinnacle of the fashion world.

According to Business of Fashion, Margiela’s sales have been on an upward trend in recent years due to Galliano’s incorporation of dramatic, theatrical elements, deconstructed styles, and a gender-neutral approach into their collections. The ‘Artisanal’ line was also pushed to unprecedented levels of craftsmanship and creative influence. Remarkably, despite a general deceleration in the luxury market, Margiela managed to increase its sales by 22% in the year 2023.

On a Wednesday announcement, the reformed fashion designer emphasized the importance of “mindful and ethical fashion,” discussing its impact while highlighting his design house’s focus on social and political issues. He explained that this includes advocating for transgender and queer rights, promoting gender equality in the workplace, combatting racism, and championing mental health awareness.

Climate & Environment

The waste from discarded clothes persists in causing blockages in water bodies, emitting harmful smoke into the air, and contaminating habitats of various communities across the globe, such as those in Chile and Ghana.

Sept. 12, 2024

As a film enthusiast, I cheer the genderless collections that we now produce, bolstered by how they are embraced and appreciated. My unisex collections, whether Artisanal or [Ready-to-Wear], embody diversity and individuality, as penned in my statement.

Additionally, he expressed his intention to relish the pleasure derived from expressing himself creatively across various mediums such as theater, films, and digital platforms, while appreciating cultures known for their unique fashion sensibilities through these art forms.

In a statement to the Associated Press, Rosso praised Galliano for transforming Maison Margiela into “the most innovative high-fashion house globally.” He went on to say that the past ten years of tireless work, stunning shows and installations, and exquisite products have paved the way for its bright future.

2024-12-12 21:31