Missed out on the fashion chatter this week? We’ve got you covered. Every week, our inbox is flooded with hundreds of press releases, but we made it our mission to sift through all the noise so you don’t have to. Here’s your quick recap of all the key fashion news from Dec. 7 to Dec. 13, served up in bite-sized pieces so you can catch up fast…
John Galliano Exits Margiela After 10-Years
John Galliano has announced his departure from Maison Margiela after 10 transformative years, marking the January Artisanal show as his last for the brand. In a heartfelt Instagram post, Galliano expressed gratitude and hinted at future plans, writing, “When the time is right, all will be revealed,” while reflecting on his ongoing journey of atonement and creativity. Appointed as creative director in 2014—his first role after a controversial exit from Dior in 2011—Galliano elevated Margiela, a cult label cherished by art and fashion insiders, to new heights. His redemption arc was recently explored in the documentary High and Low: John Galliano, released on Amazon Prime in March. A successor has not been named yet.
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Matthieu Blazy to Chanel, Louis Trotter to Bottega Veneta
In a surprising double move, Matthieu Blazy has been appointed creative director of Chanel, while Louise Trotter takes over at Bottega Veneta. Blazy, who succeeded Daniel Lee as Bottega Veneta’s creative director in November 2021, previously served as the house’s ready-to-wear design director. During his tenure, Blazy redefined the brand with innovative fabrications, such as transforming leather into flannel, knitwear, and denim. At Chanel, Blazy takes over from Virginie Viard, who led the house following Karl Lagerfeld’s passing after over 30 years at Chanel. Blazy expressed his excitement about joining Chanel, stating, “I am thrilled and honoured to join the wonderful House of Chanel.” Meanwhile, Louise Trotter, who recently served as creative director at Carven and has also worked at Lacoste and Joseph, will lead Bottega Veneta. Trotter shared her excitement for the role, calling the brand’s legacy of artistry and innovation “truly inspiring.”
Tag! You’re It—Versace Unveils Playful New Bag
Versace has unveiled the Versace Tag bag, a grab-and-go design brimming with the energy and spontaneity of the House—and Donatella herself. Showcased through bold editorial images by Jamie-Maree Shipton and Dexter Lander, the Tag is crafted from buttery-soft nappa leather with a softly structured finish, and embodies pure Versace DNA. Featuring the iconic Medusa on a removable key tag and the Versace name in glossy golden metal, it comes in a range of playful colorways like Strawberry Jam, Peridot, and Porcelain White, alongside customizable charms. Among the standout charms is the Medusa Fluffy, a playful nod to the House’s signature style, complete with Biggie sunglasses. Whether clutched or cradled, this bag is designed to be as unique as its owner, making it the newest must-have from Versace.
Dries Van Noten Appoints a New Creative Director
Dries Van Noten has announced Julian Klausner as the new Creative Director of his eponymous label, following the designer’s decision to step down after a legendary 38-year career. Klausner, who joined the brand in 2018 and worked closely with Van Noten on women’s collections, brings a deep understanding of the house’s legacy. A graduate of Brussels’ La Cambre with stints at Thom Browne and Maison Margiela, Klausner will oversee both women’s and men’s collections. Eschewing the trend of hiring star designers, the brand has chosen to nurture its own talent, ensuring continuity and a seamless transition. Van Noten himself expressed confidence in Klausner’s vision, calling him a “clear choice” to carry the house forward. Klausner’s first women’s runway show as Creative Director is set for March 5, 2025, following the debut of his Menswear Winter 2025 collection lookbook.
Jaeger-LeCoultre Opens Cafe at New Dubai Mall Flagship
Jaeger-LeCoultre has unveiled its expanded and redesigned flagship boutique at Dubai Mall. Inspired by the natural beauty of the Vallée de Joux, the boutique’s interior features organic materials, Art Deco touches, and a welcoming atmosphere that showcases the Maison’s heritage and craftsmanship. Highlights include a Patent Wall celebrating over 430 innovations and an interactive Calibre Wall displaying the brand’s most emblematic movements. Visitors can explore Jaeger-LeCoultre’s 190-year history through videos and exhibits, admire iconic timepieces like the Reverso, Polaris, and Rendez-Vous, and experience the art of personalization at the Strap Bar and Personalization Wall. Unique to this boutique, the redesigned flagship offers refreshments created by Parisian chef Nina Métayer, while two VIP Lounges provide private spaces for collectors, one featuring a screening room and the other showcasing an art installation by Emirati artist Abdalla Almulla.
