This week’s column…Oscar de la Renta gives Galliano a second chance

(images from style.com)

With ‘designer-in-residence’ John Galliano ready to make his return to the runway for the first time since his dismissal as creative director of Christian Dior in 2011, the eyes of the fashion world were firmly on the Oscar de la Renta at New York Fashion Week.

Though the designer did not make a cameo appearance, Mr Galliano’s presence was keenly felt throughout the stunning, somewhat theatrical display.

Oversized hats, reminiscent of those spotted on Dior’s 2008 runway, referred to his love exaggerated headwear, while the Galliano silhouette came through with a series of layered chiffon skirts, plunging necklines and belted waists. Also stealing the limelight was an array of striking ballgowns. In teal, shocking pink and violet, the creations were adorned with intricate lacework and gold embroidery.

It was reported that the designer and his colleagues spent hours “leading a seminar in how to tie the belts properly”, while the make up artist for the show, Gucci Westman, mentioned Galliano’s input several times while talking reporters through the show’s beauty look of waves, smoky eyes and berry lips.

Oscar de la Renta was joined by supermodel Karlie Kloss as he took his bow on the runway during the close of the show. Model of the moment Cara Delevingne also took a starring role, modelling an intricately embroidered black and gold ensemble, with fur stole and pink gloves.

The veteran designer recently opened up about his decision to invite John to work with him in the run up to New York Fashion Week. “I like him very much,” he told New York Magazine, adding: “The years I was doing Balmain in Paris, I went many times with Anna (Wintour) to his shows.”

He added that it was Wintour who suggested that the pair join forces, “When Anna asked me if I would have John in my studio, I said yes. I also believe that everyone should have a second chance, especially someone as talented as John. And he worked so hard on his recovery.”

When asked whether John’s role in the studio would continue beyond New York Fashion Week, he was uncertain. “I would love for him to stay. Will he? I cannot tell you that today. Because we haven’t gone that far in really discussing it.”