Galliano, John (1960– )

English fashion designer. His elegant and innovative designs are often inspired by historical motifs (for example, ‘Dickensian’ clothing), the elements of which he redesigns to create progressive collections. He was the head fashion designer at Givency 1995–96 and Christian Dior from 1996.

He was born in Gibraltar but grew up in London. He graduated from St Martin's School of Arts, where he was known for his technical expertise and imaginative flair, in 1984. He launched his own label the same year. In 1990 he designed the costumes for a production of Ashley Page's ballet Corrulao, performed by the Ballet Rambert. In the same year he began showing his collections in Paris.