John Galliano, one of the fashion industry’s most controversial figures, has returned to the front-line of couture as creative director for French designer, Maison Martin Margiela. The Gibraltar-born British stylist, considered to be one of the most influential designers of his age, retreated from public life following his dramatic fall from grace in 2011.

John Galliano
British-born designer, John Galliano, is considered to be one of the most influential designers of his age

He was sacked from Christian Dior, where he had held the title of creative director for 15 years, after an incident in a Paris café that led to a guilty prosecution of proffering anti-Semitic insults, an offence under French law, on two occasions in February 2011 and October 2010.

The 53-year-old, who has been awarded the title of British Fashion Designer of the Year four times, apologised and blamed his actions on drink and drugs.

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Since this incident, Galliano has emerged only sporadically for a number of small projects including Kate Moss’ wedding dress in 2011 and collaborating with Oscar de le Renta in 2013 in a small collection. He also took on the role of creative director for Russian perfume brand L’Etoile in May this year.

However, it would seem that these small projects have not satisfied the fashion world’s insatiable appetite for Galliano’s talents as this recent announcement prompted many excitable responses from others in the field.

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Speaking through social media, i-D magazine said the news had "put a spring in our step this morning" while Project Runway judge, Nina Garcia, tweeted: "So happy! The world of fashion really needs John’s talent and everyone deserves a second chance."

Most importantly, Galliano’s new employers are thrilled to have him on board. Renzo Rosso, whose OTB group controls the Margiela fashion house, told Women’s Wear Daily: "John Galliano is one of the greatest undisputed talents of all time.

"I look forward to his return to create that fashion dream that only he can create."