Few collaborations have got people talking this autumn as much as John Galliano’s with Zara. And not just because of the name: what’s interesting is how they’ve approached it.
What Re{form} is
In March 2026, Zara announced a two-year partnership with Galliano, the designer who headed Dior and Maison Margiela for years. His first instalment, Re{form} Vol. 1, went on sale on 1 October, online and in the flagship stores in London and Madrid.
It isn’t a collection designed from scratch. Galliano starts from garments from past Zara seasons, takes them apart and rebuilds them in his own language: altered proportions, exaggerated volumes and plenty of craftsmanship. There are 35 genderless looks, with photography by Steven Meisel and hats by Stephen Jones, his longtime collaborator.
A few examples
- A lace dress becomes a big ruffled collar around the neck.
- A shirt, enlarged several sizes, turns into a coat with a foil print that imitates leather.
- The collection pays tribute to “Les Incroyables”, his graduate collection at Central Saint Martins in 1984, inspired by the French Revolution.
The reactions
It hasn’t all been applause. Part of the press has criticised the quality of the materials and the finish of some garments compared with what you’d expect from a name like his, and the designer’s past still weighs on the conversation. Prices are also quoted unevenly depending on the outlet, so the most reliable thing is to check them on Zara’s website.
What we take away for sewing
Setting the debate aside, we think the underlying idea is very useful for anyone who sews:
- A garment is not a full stop. A second-hand shirt can become a coat; a dress you no longer wear, a ruffled collar.
- Changing the proportions changes everything. Lengthening, widening or adding volume transforms a basic piece without needing to buy new fabric.
- Detail rules. A good finish on the collar, cuffs and hems is what separates a recycled garment from a well-made one.
It’s exactly what we work on in our patterns and workshops: starting from a well-built base to make it your own. Choose a garment from your wardrobe that you no longer wear and give it a second life. If you’re still starting out, how to start sewing from scratchwill help.
Sources: Hypebeast, W Magazine, The Hollywood Reporter, Euronews and Inc.
Cover photo: Zara store on Calle de la Princesa (Madrid). Author: Luis García (Zaqarbal). Licence CC BY-SA 3.0 es.
