GALLIANO, JOHN

Galliano, John: translation

(1960- )

The first British designer sinceCharles Frederick Worthto command the helm of a Frenchcouturehouse. Galliano was born in Gibraltar and studied atCentral Saint Martins College of Art and Designin London, where, upon graduating, he opened his own business in 1984. In 1995, he was hired as designer atGivenchybut left one year later. In 1996, he was hired at the house ofDior. He is best known for his beautiful evening gowns that are often cut on the bias. In 2001,Gallianoadded eyewear and lingerie and, in 2003,menswear. A second women'sready-to-wearline will be launched in 2007 with Italy's IT Holding, owner ofGianfranco Ferre,Roberto Cavalli, and until 2005,Dolce&Gabbana. Influenced by film, art, and pop culture, Galliano collections traditionally cause a "stir" on the runway.

See alsoHaute Couture.