Humble Simons ‘will help Dior wipe slate clean’

The former creative director of Jil Sander, Raf Simons, will take over from Galliano as chief designer of Christian Dior
A model presents this creation by British designer John Galliano for the Dior fashion house
13 April 2012

The British fashion industry has given its seal of approval to Christian Dior’s newly appointed chief designer Raf Simons. Speaking to the Standard this morning, Vogue editor Alexandra Schulman declared Belgian-born Simons, 44, “one of the most interesting designers working today” while Fashion East founder Lulu Kennedy said it had given her “a huge kick” to see Simons rise to the top so spectacularly.

The news of Simons appointment, which appeared in an article by New York Times fashion critic Cathy Horyn yesterday, was confirmed by the sixty-six year old fashion house last night. The announcement comes some fifteen months after British designer John Galliano left the company in disgrace.

Simons who was let go from his position as creative director at German label Jil Sander in February has been widely tipped to take the top job at Dior but not because his creative vision bares any resemblance to that of Galliano. “He has a very different aesthetic” said Schulman “ it’s more contemporary and less romantic but his shows at Jil Sander demonstrated his ability to work across a great range of ideas”.

“It’s a totally fresh and exciting new beginning” agrees Kennedy. “As well being appreciated for his formidable talent, Simons is much loved by the industry. His humble, untroubled character will somehow wipe the slate clean for the house after the events of last year”.

While Galliano’s Dior was revered for its theatrics, Simons is likely to unveil a more pared-down and restrained vision when he takes to the catwalk with his first collection for the house at the July couture shows. A champion of modern elegance – his last offering for Jil Sander was among the most classically beautiful unveiled during the February shows –the designer, who began his career as a furniture designer, has a knack for creating clean, sharp silhouettes – something he looks likely to continue in his new role by exploring Christian Dior’s own vision.

“It is with the upmost respect for its tremendous history, its unparalleled knowledge and craftsmanship that I am joining the magnificent house of Dior” said Simons yesterday.

Of course, only time and - most importantly - sales - will tell if he is the right man for the job.

Click here to view a gallery of Simons's last show for Jil Sander.

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