It’s been almost two years since John Galliano was unceremoniously dumped from Dior after his anti-Semitic rant, however the designer is poised for return with a temporary residency at Oscar de la Renta.
In a surprise move, Oscar de la Renta has invited the disgraced designer into his studio for three weeks as he prepares for New York Fashion Week. “John and I have known each other for many years and I am a great admirer of his talent,” said de la Renta. “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.”
Since his dramatic departure in March 2011, Galliano has laid low – only making a brief appearance in the headlines to design Kate Moss’ wedding gown. He has taken the time to make amends and recover from his addictions. “I am an alcoholic. I have been in recovery for the past two years,” he told WWD. “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.”
While his public reputation may have taken a severe bashing, some of the fashion big-wigs have never lost hope that Galliano would make a controversial return. In fact, Anna Wintour herself was the one who suggested the internship with Oscar de la Renta. “I am grateful to Oscar beyond words for inviting me to spend time with him in the familiar surroundings of a design studio,” Galliano said. “His support and faith in me is humbling.”
