What comes as surprising, yet great (in our opinion), news in the fashion world is that John Galliano, previous creative director at both Dior and his own eponymous label, has had his red card removed by helping hand and old friend, Oscar de la Renta.
According to reports by WWD last week, de la Renta will host the disgraced yet undoubtedly talented designer at his design studio in New York, for the following three weeks. Maintaining his encouragement of Galliano’s reentry into the trade, de la Renta explains to WWD, “John and I have known each other for many years and I am a great admirer of his talent… He has worked long and hard on his recovery and I am happy to give him the opportunity to reimmerse himself in the world of fashion and reacclimate in an environment where he has been so creative… Everyone in life deserves a second chance, especially someone as talented as John. I think that life is about forgiving and helping people… I think John is doing all the right things.”
As the first foot (back) in the door since the designer’s drunken anti-Semitic statements which occurred almost two years ago, this is a fantastic opportunity for Galliano. Pleading guilty to all charges, Galliano recovered from his alcohol addiction in rehab, whilst essentially hiding from the public eye, save Kate Moss’ wedding (of which he designed the dress) and occasional lunch dates with Anna Wintour (of whom has a very close relationship with De La Renta) and Grace Coddington.
Speaking out, Galliano reveals, “I am an alcoholic … I have been in recovery for the past two years. Several years prior to my sobriety, I descended into the madness of the disease. I said and did things which hurt others, especially members of the Jewish community. I have expressed my sorrow privately and publicly for the pain which I caused, and I continue to do so. I remain committed to making amends to those I have hurt… I am grateful to Oscar beyond words for inviting me to spend time with him in the familiar surroundings of a design studio… His support and faith in me is humbling.”
Galliano has also received approbation from the Anti-Defamation League, “We wish him much success and look forward to working with him again in the near future as a spokesman against anti-Semitism, intolerance and bigotry … We believe that individuals can change their hearts and minds as long as they demonstrate true contrition.”
It only takes one person to see the good in another, so much respect to de la Renta, for being the one to see the good in Galliano. We wish Galliano the best in his return, and can’t wait to see what (good) surprises he has in store for us all.
