One month after the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York cancelled a planned exhibition dedicated to fashion designer John Galliano, his inaugural collaboration with fast-fashion retailer Zara has officially launched. The collection, titled Re{form}, follows significant backlash directed at the designer regarding antisemitic remarks he made in 2011.
According to a press release describing the project, the line was “authored by the couturier John Galliano” and is “built from our memory” while being “made for now.” Despite the controversy surrounding the designer’s history, the collaboration is viewed by some industry observers as a substantial opportunity for the retailer.
Seems like calculated risk-taking. Are they betting the controversy will generate more buzz than the cancellation did?
I just want to know if the clothes are actually any good. What’s the quality like for the price point?
Does anyone else find it wild that the press release mentions the 2011 remarks casually? Seems tone-deaf to me.
Fascinating how the industry prioritizes commerce over ethics. The Met’s retreat contrasts sharply with Zara’s embrace.