They said/We said: Derek Lam out at Tod’s, and Galliano in? Let the guessing games begin!

Photography by Peter Stigter

Our heads are beginning to spin a bit from all the news, rumours and speculation of designers changing their fashion house posts. (Seriously, can we all just decide on a 2012 Trade Deadline?)

It was reported yesterday and confirmed today that much-loved designer Derek Lam would be leaving his post as Tod’s creative director. And while we love Lam’s shoes and accessories, we’re not all that disappointed—relinquishing Tod’s might just give him more time to concentrate on his acclaimed namesake line, or expand his diffusion line, 10 Crosby.

But a WWD interview with Tod’s chairman Diego Della Valle is causing an even bigger stir (sorry, Derek) for its seemingly off-hand comment about John Galliano being linked to the house. “Lam’s departure coincides with continued speculation that John Galliano was in talks with the Italian firm to either do a Tod’s capsule collection or revamp its Schiaparelli brand. However, Della Valle firmly dismissed the rumors.”

It’s too bad those rumours were dismissed, but we’re still crossing our fingers that they’re true. We think this could only be good news for Schiaparelli, a brand that’s gone without a head designer for the last several years. Galliano’s been a free agent for a while now, and the pairing could be a good first step back and a match made in heaven—quite romantic, actually.

THEY SAID…

Fashionista: “In light of the fact that the Prada/Schiaparelli exhibit is about to open at the Met, it seems like the perfect time to relaunch the iconic brand. And it may sneakily be happening already.” [Fashionista]

Fashion Collections: “Where Lam’s next great fashion endeavor will be remains a mystery. Perhaps he will apply for the still vacant position at Dior.” [Fashion Collections]

The Cut: “Dang, Della Valle. Schiaparelli has been without a head designer since its acquisition in 2007 and we’re sort of sweet on the idea of Galliano at the helm.” [The Cut]

WE SAID…

Eliza Grossman, assistant fashion editor: “Although we’re well aware that Galliano knows how to make a splash, I think his name is just one in a long list of designers that have been and will be linked to the brand.”

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