It was on the afternoon of October 22 that the news was confirmed: Raf Simons, head of artistic creation at Dior since April 2012, is stepping down and has decided to devote himself to other projects, “other passions” and in particular his own brand.
Dior is one of the world’s best-known fashion houses. Bernard Arnault made it his goal when he began rehabilitating former luxury houses. He remarked, quite rightly, that Christian Dior is the best-known name in the world, representing couture, savoir-faire and France.
After the Galliano scandal, Raf Simons took over the reins of the house, continuing to modernize it while revisiting the key, emblematic codes of Monsieur Dior. Tribute and modernity: the flowers so beloved by Christian Dior have never been so majestic as at the most recent shows. Just look at the structure built for the last Fashion Week: a lavender dome set in the middle of the courtyard of the carré du Louvre.
Raf Simons will go down in the history of the brand, having made his mark for the elegance of his cuts, as well as introducing new ambassadors such as Rihanna.
Raf Simons explains his departure by citing “personal reasons”. The mystery remains…Fatigue, too much pressure, too many constraints, or simply a need for fresh air and renewal for the designer who made his name at the helm of Jil Sanders. The official press release hints at a mutually agreed decision, revealing a mutual respect between Bernard Arnault and the designer. The merit of this departure is that it comes at an opportune moment, before a scandal, before an outburst. A great retirement for Raf Simons, a reference that commands respect for this discreet man.
What matters now is what happens next. And the rumours are flying. Who will take up the torch? An anonymous (Gucci tactic), or a big name? Ricardo Tisci or Jonathan Anderson? The names of Olivier Theyskens and the Proenza Schouler duo are circulating. In the meantime, you can take a look back at the catwalks and fashion editorials to admire the work of Monsieur Simons.
Dior fall/winter 2015 2016
Dior fall/winter 2015 2016
Pre-fall 2015
Natalia Vodianova
Rosie Huntington Whiteley
jessica Alba
Marion Cotillard
Rihanna
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