After the 2011 scandal concerning designer John Galliano and some very inappropriate comments, most of us thought he'd never make it back into the limelight. Dior sacked him almost immediately, he was stripped of his of Légion d'Honneur, and he over the course of a few months, he seemed to fall off the radar a bit. But now, the controversial figure may have a ticket back into the industry's good graces — by way of fashion vet Oscar de la Renta, who has invited the disgraced designer to spend time in his NYC studio over the next few weeks.
“John and I have known each other for many years and I am a great admirer of his talent,” de la Renta told WWD. “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.”
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If de la Renta truly intends to orchestrate a return for Galliano, it will be one of fashion's most notable comebacks. Though he's apologized for his actions, most have been more than reluctant to associate with the once-lauded designer. But WWD reports that the Anti-Defamation League (once a strong critic of Galliano's antisemitic comments) welcomes de la Renta's decision. The ADL's national director noted that “We believe that individuals can change their hearts and minds as long as they demonstrate true contrition.... 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."
Here's hoping Galliano is truly repentant. While his comments will be a stain on his reputation and a sting in the hearts of those who once revered him, in the spirit of forgiveness we sincerely hope he can recover some lost ground, while simultaneously showing his remorse for some very unfortunate moments in the past. (WWD)
Image via WWD.