On the eve of Paris fashion week -- where the Dior and John Galliano shows, respectively, are significant highlights on the calendar -- designer John Galliano was reportedly arrested for allegedly verbally assaulting a couple in a cafe.
According to Reuters, the designer allegedly got into a drunken verbal altercation with a couple on a cafe terrace. The police escorted Galliano to his home, but no charges were filed. The report also seems to suggest that the stress of fashion week might have fueled the outburst:
One policeman said the outburst was prompted by stress ahead of fashion week, which starts next Monday and at which Dior's show is always in the spotlight.
A report in the Guardian, however, indicates that some of Galliano's alleged remarks were antisemitic in nature. As a result, the House of Dior has apparently suspended the designer, who has been the chief designer for the brand since 1996. From the Guardian:
The chief executive of Dior, Sidney Toledano, said Galliano had been removed from his post. "Dior affirms with the utmost conviction its policy of zero tolerance towards any antisemitic or racist words or behaviour. Pending the results of the inquiry Christian Dior has suspended John Galliano from his responsibilities."
Needless to say, the Dior presentation in Paris will be closely watched by insiders to see how the show goes off without its lead designer. The news also comes on the heels of word that Galliano will design the wedding gown of his longtime friend, Kate Moss.
