Oscar De La Renta has invited John Galliano to spend time with him in his New York design studio.

The acclaimed designer wants to help his disgraced friend - who departed Christian Dior - two years ago following drunken outbursts and an anti-Semitic rant - begin getting his career back on track by ''reimmersing'' himself in the fashion world.

Oscar said: ''John and I have known each other for many years and I am a great admirer of his talent.

''He has worked long and hard on his recovery and I am happy to give him the opportunity to reimmerse himself in the world of fashion and reacclimate in an environment where he has been so creative.''

Oscar believes John, who blamed stress and addictions for his controversial behaviour, deserves a second chance and is going about changing his life in the right way.

He told WWD: ''I think John is doing all the right things. Everyone in life deserves a second chance, especially someone as talented as John. I think that life is about forgiving and helping people....I think John is doing all the right things.''

And the shamed designer says he is ''humbled'' by his friend's support.

He said: ''I am grateful to Oscar beyond words for inviting me to spend time with him in the familiar surroundings of a design studio.

''His support and faith in me is humbling.''

However, his friend insisted his invitation is not a sign he is planning to retire.

He said: ''Am I retiring? Is John going to replace me? Certainly not. I hope to be around for a long time.''