In April, more than a year after Dior dismissed John Galliano for anti-Semitic remarks, the company finally appointed a new creative director, Raf Simons. As soon as the news was announced, the fashion community was abuzz with speculation about how the young Simons, who did a seven-year stint at Jil Sander as its creative director, would continue the legacy of one of France’s most famed fashion houses. Simons made his debut for Dior in July during Haute Couture Fashion Week. In what was the most anticipated runway show of the year, he presented a collection that seemed simultaneously innovative and rooted in the brand’s history. After opening with a modern take on Dior’s classic “Bar jacket,” Simons showcased a number of sculptural gowns with floral motifs that nodded to Christian Dior’s love of flowers. The collection was highly acclaimed by editors, designers and critics, and the New York Times’ Cathy Horyn wrote, “He gets the most and the best out of couture, and this is just the start.”