Who better to judge the next generation of brilliant British designers than a brilliant Brit like John Galliano?
The creative director at Christian Dior will step into the shoes of Donatella Versace and become honorary chairperson of Fashion Fringe for the next two years. And he's pretty certain about what he is looking for as well...
"I am hoping we find a rebel genius. I will look for someone who reminds me of me when I was starting out - someone original, unique, who has their own style and handwriting and isn't afraid to try something new. Fashion sometimes gets scared and plays it too safe - but I want to push boundaries," he said.
Applications for Fashion Fringe at Covent Garden are now open until 30th April. Visit: www.fashionfringe.co.uk
Hot on the heels of the news of her deal with Iconix Brand Group Inc. for a series of fashion projects, comes the eyewear line that Madonna has co-designed with Dolce & Gabbana. As a close friend of the Italian duo, Madge is great snag for the label, helping them to create six pairs of sunglasses featuring the MDG logo.
"We're so excited. This further strengthens our relationship with Madonna, and it was a very constructive experience for us," said Stefano Gabbana. The collection is due to go on sale in May.
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British designers seem to be having a real moment right now on the international scene. CQ favourite Matthew Williamson has been recruited by Bulgari not to design jewellery but a new range of handbags.
The luxury jeweller has enlisted Matthew Williamson to create a capsule collection for spring/summer 2011, which will then be unveiled at Milan Fashion Week in September.
"[We chose Williamson] for the great sense of color and design he brings to his work," said the label's CEO, Francesco Trapani.
Meanwhile, it didn't take long for the Aquascutum boys (pictured) to find a new job. According to Vogue, they have been snapped by Swiss label Bally. Michael Herz and Graeme Fidler look set to replace Brian Atwood, who stepped down as creative director last week. Word is, Bally is looking to expand from accessories into ready-to-wear.
No doubt this won't come as a huge surprise to many... but it appears as though
Lindsay Lohan is no longer involved at
Emanuel Ungaro.
Ungaro owner Asim Abdullah confirmed the news to WWD backstage at the label's Paris show this week.
"She's not involved in this collection," he simply said, without wishing to comment further. Furthermore, the troubled actress wasn't to be seen at Ungaro's show on Monday. When asked later in the day as to why this was, Lindsay replied: "Because I don't work for them anymore. There's legal things going on; I can't really discuss it."
Ungaro was widely criticised after they recruited Lohan to act as artistic advisor. Shortly after its president Mounir Moufarrige, resigned from his role.
Despite reports to the contrary, Gareth Pugh isn't being lined up to succeed Alexander McQueen. Over the weekend, the Telegraph reported that Gucci Group owner PPR had indicated that they wanted Pugh to take over as creative director at the label. This has since been denied by a spokesperson for the young designer.
In response, Pugh's PR company, Mandi Lennard Publicity, issued the following statement: "Further to speculative reports earlier this week, Gareth Pugh is not in discussions with Gucci Group about a Creative Director role at Alexander McQueen."
In the meantime, McQueen's final collection which is believed to have been nearly completed before his death, will be "unveiled in a series of low-key, private, salon presentations" this week.
In a surprising turn of events, the designers behind Aquascutum have decided to step down.
According to sources, Graeme Fidler and Michael Herz handed in their resignations because they wish to pursue new projects. Despite multiple shifts in management, Fidler who has been with the label since 2002 and Herz since 2000, have stuck by the brand which has also won them much praise during their tenure.
They've had a great time at the brand, but they want to move on, and we fully understand that. We wish them well, and the situation is amicable," said CEO Belinda Earl. "They are working out their notice period, so for now, it's business as usual."
Although figures for Aquascutum are down, Earl added that they feel "very confident about the future" and there are plans to expand. There is no word yet on who might replace Fidler and Herz.
You have seen a video preview, now feast your eyes on the stunning new ads starring Julianne Moore for Bvlgari. Posing with a few feathered friends, I love the rich colours of this S/S 2010 campaign, which really centers itself around Julianne's luscious crimson hair and porcelain skin. Captured by Mert Alas and Marcus Piggott, it begs the question - could anyone else have carried this off better? Hmm.. doubtful.
Click through to see more print campaign pics...
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