John Galliano for Fashion Fringe

Internationally acclaimed designer John Galliano will be the new honorary chairperson of Fashion Fringe for the next two years. Following in the footsteps of Donatellla Versace, John Galliano has been at the forefront of fashion for 25 years. He produces 17 collections a year including ready-to-wear Galliano and Dior, Haute Couture Dior and Galliano menswear.

For 2010, Fashion Fringe at Covent Garden will focus on encouraging the spirit of extreme imagination, adventure and experimental beauty that London is historically known for. Designers will be asked to demonstrate an exciting original approach but also the potential to create and make beautiful sellable clothes.

John Galliano said: “I am hoping we find a rebel genius. I will look for someone who reminds me of me when I was starting out - someone original, unique, who has their own style and handwriting and isn't afraid to try something new. Fashion sometimes gets scared and plays it too safe - but I want to push boundaries. When I started, all I wanted to do was create - I didn't have a clue about business, but it is so important to have good foundations in both. So many talented designers have been lost or swallowed up by corporate machines because they didn't know how to handle the business side. I learned the hard way.”

Fashion Fringe at Covent Garden launched seven years ago by Colin McDowell in association with IMG Fashion. The platform was set up to discover, nurture and sustain cutting edge design talent across the UK. Since 2004 the business model has launched more than thirteen successful designers.

Fashion Fringe at Covent Garden is supported by Covent Garden London, American Express, Davenport Lyons, DHL, London Development Agency, The Mayor of London, and is an IMG event. The application process for Fashion Fringe at Covent Garden 2010 closes on 30th April.

Image: John Galliano