John Galliano Bids Farewell to Maison Margiela

The end of a transformative era

In a poignant announcement that has sent ripples through the fashion industry, John Galliano revealed his departure from Maison Margiela after a transformative decade as creative director. The news, shared through a heartfelt Instagram post, marks the end of an era that witnessed both personal redemption and creative brilliance.

John’s tenure at Maison Margiela has been nothing short of remarkable. It culminated in a spectacular Spring 2025 Couture show in Paris that served as a magnificent swan song. Presented beneath the Pont Alexandre III bridge, the collection showcased his masterful craftsmanship with ethereal designs inspired by Brassai’s imagery, complemented by Pat McGrath’s stunning porcelain doll makeup that captured social media’s imagination.

The designer’s journey with Margiela began in 2014, four years after a controversial incident that nearly ended his career. Under the guidance of OTB’s founder and president, Renzo Rosso, John found not only a professional home but a path to creative rehabilitation.

In his farewell statement, he expressed profound gratitude to Renzo, acknowledging how the opportunity helped him rediscover his “creative voice when I had become voiceless.”

Legacy and reflections

John’s departure announcement was characteristically poetic. The letter touched on themes of self-forgiveness and the fashion community’s role in his redemption. “I continue to atone, and I will never stop dreaming,” he wrote. The statement concluded with a tribute to his atelier and emphasized their shared pursuit of beauty and craftsmanship.

While no successor has been named and John’s next move remains unknown, his legacy at Maison Margiela will be remembered for both its artistic triumphs and the powerful story of personal transformation it represents.

His final year with the house was particularly memorable, marked by the release of a behind-the-scenes book and a documentary about his creative process, both debuted during Paris Fashion Week.

As the fashion world anticipates its next chapter, John’s departure joins other significant industry movements, including Julian Klausner’s recent appointment at Dries Van Noten.

However, this transition stands apart as a moment to reflect on a decade that witnessed not only the revival of a storied fashion house but also the redemption of one of fashion’s most visionary creators.