John Galliano Replaced By Bill Gaytten

Bill Gaytten has been made the new creative director of the John Galliano label.

The 51-year-old sartorialist - who worked with Galliano for 23 years - has replaced The Fashion house's eponymous founding designer after he was fired earlier this year for alleged anti-Semetic remarks.

A statement said: "Gaytten's expertise to innovate patterns, cut and drape are what define the DNA of the house."

Bill - who impressed with his collection at the Menswear Fashion Week in Paris on Friday (24.06.11) - said of his official new role: "It's the same job for me; I've been doing it for a long time. The menswear show was a bit different because John wasn't there. I'm dying to know what he thinks!"

Last week, Galliano appeared in a Paris court, where he blamed his recent outbursts on his addiction to alcohol, sleeping tablets and valium.

His lawyer Aurelian Hamelle said: "One obvious thing is that John Galliano was ill. He had a triple addiction to alcohol, benzodiazepine (valium) and sleeping pills."

The lawyer said Galliano - who is now back in rehab to receive treatment for his addictions - was mortified to see how he acted in the video and denies being anti-Semetic.

Five people were to give evidence in the trial, which ended yesterday, and the verdict is due on September 8.

If he is found guilty, he faces a huge fine and a six-month prison sentence.