John Galliano

Dior

From Gibraltar

Explore the dramatic world of John Galliano, the visionary designer known for his romanticism, theatricality, and transformative impact on Dior and Maison Margiela.

Born in: 1960-11-28

Known for: Galliano redefined couture with his narrative-driven collections, bringing storytelling to the forefront of fashion and influencing a generation of designers.

John Galliano | Couturer Curated High Fashion

Early Life

Born in Gibraltar and raised in London, Galliano studied at Central Saint Martins, where his graduate collection, inspired by the French Revolution, gained critical acclaim.

Breakthrough Moment

Galliano’s 1984 graduate collection, 'Les Incroyables,' caught the attention of the fashion elite and launched his career as a designer to watch.

Signature Style

Romantic, theatrical designs blending historical references with avant-garde techniques, characterized by intricate details and dramatic silhouettes.

Timeline

  • Graduate Collection 'Les Incroyables'

    1984-01-01

    Galliano’s graduate collection from Central Saint Martins gained immediate acclaim, launching his career.

  • Appointed Creative Director of Dior

    1996-10-01

    Galliano transformed Dior into a modern luxury powerhouse with his groundbreaking collections.

  • Appointed Creative Director of Maison Margiela

    2014-10-06

    Galliano began a new chapter, infusing Maison Margiela with his unique blend of drama and innovation.

Major Contributions

  • Reinventing haute couture with storytelling and spectacle.
  • Transforming Dior into a modern luxury powerhouse during his tenure (1996–2011).
  • Bringing a theatrical, avant-garde approach to Maison Margiela as its creative director.

Brand Evolution

After establishing his own label, Galliano took the reins at Givenchy and Dior, where he created legendary collections. Since 2014, he has revitalized Maison Margiela with his avant-garde vision.

Personal Life

Galliano’s career has been marked by extraordinary highs and personal challenges, including his dismissal from Dior in 2011. He has since made a celebrated comeback at Maison Margiela.

Cultural Impact

Galliano’s work has left an indelible mark on fashion, with his boundary-pushing designs and theatrical presentations inspiring countless designers and creatives worldwide.

Quotes

  • "The joy of dressing is an art." ~ John Galliano
  • "Dressing up. People just don’t do it anymore. We have to change that." ~ John Galliano

Trivia

  • Galliano’s graduate collection was purchased in its entirety by London boutique Browns.
  • He often draws inspiration from historical periods, including the French Revolution and the Belle Époque.

Key Collections

Les Incroyables

Galliano's graduate collection at Central Saint Martins, inspired by the French Revolution, set the tone for his dramatic and historical design style.

Dior Haute Couture Spring/Summer 2004

A landmark collection celebrating 18th-century opulence with modern twists, showcasing Galliano’s mastery of couture.

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