John Galliano Homme takes to the runway | Paris Fashion Week
Bill Gaytten, who spent the last 23 years working alongside Galliano at the label, briefly appeared at the top of the runway and gave a quick wave to the crowd before disappearing from view -- a stark contrast to Galliano's traditionally flamboyant post-show pose. According to a spokesman for the brand, the 51-year-old Gaytten, who holds a degree in architecture from the Bartlett School of Architecture, University College London, has been named to succeed Galliano - who was fired by majority owner LVMH Louis Vuitton - in the role of creative director.
Other than a new face at the far-end of the runway, the most noticeable difference this season was the absence of over-the-top styling, makeup and theatrical sets. (Last season's show, for example, involved pianos, candelabras, full-length dance mirrors and faux snow on the catwalk). The more subdued staging may have cut into the mood, but it made it a lot easier to envision the clothes as they'd most likely be worn.
