Discover the bio of John Galliano on L'OFFICIEL, one of the most beloved visionary creatives of our time

John Galliano, the master of British fashion, was born in Gibraltar on 28 November 1960, and only six years later moved with his family to South London. It was here that he began to cultivate his innate passion for art and design. In fact, at just 16 years old, he dropped out of Wilson's Grammar School for Boys to dedicate himself to studying textile design at East London College. Then, in 1980, he entered St. Martin's School of Art in <a href="https://www.lofficielibiza.com/design/experience-rebel-30-years-of-london-fashion-at-london-s-design-museum" target="_blank" rel="noopener">London</a>, where he became passionate about historical costume.
We cannot forget his extraordinary 1984 Graduation Collection, Les Incroyables, inspired by the French Revolution, which caught the attention of the owner of a well-known London boutique of the time. After brilliant academic success, Galliano set up his own studio in a glamorous warehouse in London's East End, quickly emerging as the "wunderkind" of British fashion in the 1980s. His career reached its peak in 1987 when he was named Designer of the Year by the British Fashion Council.
The turning point, however, came in 1995, when he was called to replace Hubert de <a href="https://www.lofficielibiza.com/fashion/givenchy-runways-chronicled-in-new-book" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Givenchy</a>, the founder of the historic French fashion house. Thus, John Galliano became the first British designer to head a French Haute Couture fashion house. His genius continued to spread splendor, earning him the title of one of the greatest stylists of all time, a recognition confirmed with the nominations of Designer of the Year in 1994 and 1995. Furthermore, in 1997, he shared the coveted award with <a href="https://www.lofficielibiza.com/fashion/alexander-mcqueen-iconic-runway-shows-designer-lee-mcqueen-fashion-history" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Alexander McQueen</a>, his successor at Givenchy.

Linda Evangelista wears a dress from the Haute Couture collection for autumn winter 1996-1997 by John Galliano for Givenchy

Givenchy's autumn winter 1996-1997

Givenchy autumn winter 2012

John Galliano's autumn winter 1996-1997 Haute Couture collection for Givenchy

Since 1996, Galliano has been appointed creative director of the Maison Dior, revolutionizing the fashion system with Haute Couture collections inspired by Nefertiti and with iconic accessories such as the saddlebag. His unique ability to combine historical aesthetics with a decidedly contemporary look has redefined the canons of fashion. Also around that time, luxury goods conglomerate Louis Vuitton M&ouml;et Hennessy ( LVMH ) acquired the eponymous brand founded by Galliano.

« Bernard Arnault , owner of LVMH, which owned both Givenchy and Dior, hoped that Galliano, then 36 years old, would attract a younger clientele».

Then, in 2009, John Galliano was awarded the French Legion of Honour, one of the most coveted honors in the country. However, exactly two years later, in 2011, he was accused of anti-Semitic insults and forced to leave both Dior and his namesake fashion house. Facing his personal battles related to drugs and alcohol, he embarked on a rehabilitation journey that led him to deep reflection and personal growth. Found guilty in September 2011, Galliano was shunned for the next two years, despite having created model Kate Moss's wedding dress in 2011.

Dior spring summer 1998

Dior's autumn winter 2008 collection

Dior's spring summer 2000 collection

Dior's spring summer 1997 collection

«Then, in 2013, thanks to Oscar de la Renta &#39;s invitation for a temporary residency, he officially returned to the scene».

The Dior autumn winter 2000-2001 Haute Couture collection

Dior's Spring Summer 2007 Haute Couture collection

Dior's spring summer 2003 collection

However, Galliano's real redemption came in 2014, when he was appointed the new creative director of Maison Martin Margiela, renamed just Maison Margiela starting in 2015.
With this fashion house, Galliano revealed a new and even bolder identity, overseeing all lines, including Couture and Ready-to-Wear. His first show during Paris Couture Week - in January 2015 - was a true triumph of creativity and innovation, confirming how this visionary designer continues to surprise us today.

John Galliano: The Visionary Bridging Art, Revolution, and Madness

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