John Galliano has undoubtedly cemented his place in fashion history as one of the greatest couturiers of our time. Over a year ago, his final Artisanal collection for Maison Margiela caused a true sensation, definitively closing the era of “quiet luxury” in fashion. In December 2024, Galliano announced on his Instagram that he was stepping down as creative director of the brand after a decade-long tenure. For the past four months, the fashion community has been buzzing with speculation: “What’s next?”

 

Galliano’s creations are longed for on the runway—and the thought of him simply retiring is unsettling for many (after all, John is already 64). Some hope for his return to Dior, especially amid rumors of Maria Grazia Chiuri’s departure in May. This speculation is fueled by the fact that Dior’s menswear line is currently without a creative director. Others believe Galliano might take the helm at Balenciaga as creative director. After all, Cristóbal Balenciaga and John Galliano share Spanish roots.

 

The designer himself has yet to reveal his plans, but he seemed to drop a hint in his Instagram post: “When the time is right, all will be revealed.” This gives hope that he isn’t leaving the industry. But where might he be headed?

 

In his letter, Galliano also shared something personal. “This conversation prompted an unexpected question from him about my thoughts on John Galliano. I explained that I had mourned the loss of JG and my previous identity, but I am much happier with the new version of JG. I strive daily to be a better version of this person,” he wrote, reflecting on a conversation with Renzo Rosso, the owner of Maison Margiela and the OTB Group. Could Rosso have been referring to Galliano’s namesake brand, which he lost in 2011 along with his position at Dior? Perhaps Rosso has a plan to buy the brand back from Bernard Arnault, allowing Galliano to return as its creative director?

 

For now, these are just guesses. As Galliano himself said, “When the time is right, all will be revealed.” Perhaps that time is closer than we think.