This has been a year filled with shifts in the fashion world, and John Galliano has now announced his departure from Maison Margiela, a brand he has been associated with for many years.

In a recent interview with Women’s Wear Daily, Galliano confirmed that he is stepping down from his role at the prestigious French fashion label.

“As I move on from this amazing house, I am filled with happiness and gratitude, and I want to express my feelings. I continue to seek redemption and will always have dreams,” Galliano shared with WWD.

He added: “When I was invited to take on the role of artistic director at the house created by Martin (Margiela), it was the most generous gift: the chance to rediscover my creative voice, which I had lost.”

Galliano’s remarks were in reference to his controversial dismissal from Christian Dior in 2011 after a video emerged showing him making remarks deemed racist and antisemitic while at a Paris bar. He was later convicted of two hate crimes that same year, in addition to a similar incident a year prior.

However, Galliano made a significant return to the fashion scene in 2014 with his role at Margiela.

“It takes courage to unlearn and educate ourselves about our past – as it is shaped by society – to share, empathize, and embody compassion,” he continued.

Galliano expressed his appreciation for Renzo Russo, the president of Margiela’s parent company, who he credited with “taking a chance” on him, stating that his hiring sent a message to the fashion industry: it thrives best when there is mutual support rather than judgment, and when we are able to accept, forgive, and assist each other in recognizing our mistakes.

This year, former Gucci creative head Alessandro Michele took the reins as creative director at Valentino after Pier Paolo Piccioli’s departure.

“Maison Valentino is delighted to announce the appointment of Alessandro Michele as Creative Director today,” the brand stated on social media at the time. “This marks the start of a new era to enhance the brand’s unique values, heritage, and couture traditions through Alessandro’s exceptional viewpoint and extensive experience.”

Michele described his new role as “a tremendous honor,” expressing, “I feel immense joy and a significant responsibility to join a Maison de Couture that symbolizes ‘beauty’ in its collective history, characterized by elegance, refinement, and grace.”

Chanel is also experiencing its own leadership transitions, with industry observers anticipating the announcement of a new creative director. Reports indicate that Matthieu Blazy, the creative head of Bottega Veneta, is a leading candidate for the position.