Anna Wintour is under fresh criticism after her plan to feature John Galliano as the main focus of the 2027 Met Gala fell apart. The theme, announced about a month ago, aimed to highlight Galliano’s well-known but controversial career. However, the announcement faced strong backlash, leading Galliano to withdraw from the event. Insiders are now discussing how this situation was handled.
Reports suggest that Wintour’s efforts to restore Galliano’s reputation may have failed. One source mentioned that Wintour assumed she could easily reinstate him in the fashion world but miscalculated, putting him in a vulnerable position. This person stated that Wintour needed to reconsider her approach and take a break from such plans.
Wintour and Galliano have had a long-standing friendship. She supported him through rehabilitation and his journey towards atonement after he made antisemitic and racist comments in 2011. Their friendship received attention again in February when they were seen having dinner with Vogue veteran Grace Coddington in New York City, leading to speculation about Wintour’s intentions.
In July, Wintour officially announced “John Galliano: Horizons” as the theme for the 2027 Met Gala. Nevertheless, a source close to Wintour clarified that the decision was not solely hers. This person emphasized that many people on the Met board were involved in approving the theme and that it was a collective decision over a few years.
Despite this, the announcement faced immediate opposition from Jewish leaders and donors of the museum. Had the event proceeded, Galliano would have been the third living designer to have a solo exhibition at the Met, following Yves Saint Laurent and Rei Kawakubo.
This week, Galliano shared his feelings about stepping back from the exhibition, expressing sadness about the decision. He stated that he is accountable for the hurt caused by his past words, particularly to Jewish and Asian communities. Galliano acknowledged that real atonement involves more than an exhibition or recognition and should be shown through continuous learning and good conduct over time. He added that he did not want the controversy surrounding him to negatively influence the Met or detract from the work of the Costume Institute.
What are your thoughts on the decision to choose Galliano as the theme for the Met Gala?
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Source: Amo Media, by Amo Media