John Galliano

John Galliano is a British fashion designer known for theatrical ready-to-wear and haute couture work for his own label and major houses including Givenchy, Dior, and Maison Margiela.

John Galliano is a British fashion designer known for theatrical ready-to-wear and haute couture work for his own label and major houses including Givenchy, Dior, and Maison Margiela. Born in Gibraltar in 1960 and raised in south London, he became one of the most influential and controversial figures in contemporary fashion.

Early life and education

John Galliano was born in Gibraltar and grew up in south London. He studied at Central Saint Martins, where his graduation collection helped launch his career.

Fashion career

Galliano established his own label in 1984 and later led design at Givenchy and Dior. His work is associated with dramatic, historically inspired, theatrical fashion presentation. He was creative director at Givenchy from 1995 to 1996 and at Christian Dior from 1996 to 2011.

Maison Margiela period

After leaving Dior, Galliano returned to high fashion as creative director of Maison Margiela in 2014. He oversaw the house’s couture and women’s ready-to-wear lines until 2024.

Recognition and honours

Galliano was named British Designer of the Year four times and received a CBE in 2001. He was also identified by the BBC as one of the most influential figures in British culture in a 2004 poll.

Controversy

Galliano’s career was disrupted in 2011 after footage emerged of him making anti-Semitic remarks in Paris, leading to dismissal from Dior and a long period away from the spotlight.