John Galliano invited to return to fashion

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John Galliano invited to return to fashion

SAMANTHA CRITCHELL
The Associated Press | Published: January 25, 2013 | Modified: January 25, 2013 at 4:52 pm

FILE -In this June 22, 2011 file photo, former Dior designer John Galliano arrives at the Paris court house, charged with hurling anti-Semitic slurs in a Paris cafe. Galliano has been invited to return to fashion in the studio of Oscar de la Renta. De la Renta invited Galliano to spend time in his office over the next three weeks, according to a statement released Friday by de la Renta's company. Galliano was dismissed as creative director of Christian Dior and left his own label two years ago after an anti-Semitic rant at a Paris cafe was captured on video. A French court also convicted him on two other complaints of anti-Semitic behavior. (AP Photo/Thibault Camus, File)

The Anti-Defamation League said Friday that it welcomed Galliano's return to fashion.

"We believe that individuals can change their hearts and minds as long as they demonstrate true contrition," National Director Abraham H. Foxman said in a statement. He said Galliano met with the group on several occasions and "dedicated a significant amount of time to researching, reading, and learning about the evils of anti-Semitism and bigotry."

Foxman added that he hoped to work with Galliano as a spokesman against anti-Semitism and intolerance.

Galliano's extravagant, theatrical collections drew inspiration from far-flung cultures like Kenya's Massai people and the geishas of Japan and his proud rooster-like post-fashion show strut had long been a thing of legend.

Although Galliano's remarks would not be punishable in the U.S., France has strict laws aimed at curbing anti-Semitic and racist language. The laws were enacted in the decades following the Holocaust.

Galliano's own namesake label, now designed by Bill Gaytten, was presenting its menswear collection in Paris on Friday.

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