Raf Simons to leave Jil Sander

Last year rumours were rife as to who was finally to replace Galliano after his highly controversial departure from fashion heavyweight Christian Dior, everyone from Alaia to Marc Jacobs was in the frame. The most recent name thrown into the mix was Raf Simons, who currently is Creative Director at Jil Sander, although nothing was confirmed from either side.

Today, after Times fashion critic Cathy Horyn tweeted 'Jil Sander company has just confirmed that Raf Simons is leaving' it seems that the most recent speculations are in fact true. Jil Sander then released a statement confirming the rumours.

"The Jil Sander Group and Raf Simons, announce today that Mr Simons will leave his position as creative director.  Jil Sander Group and Raf Simons agreed that the designer will step down from his position as of 27th February 2012.

Raf Simons was appointed Jil Sander creative director on the 1st July 2005 with his first big collection being men's Fall/Winter 2006.  The women's Fall/Winter 2012 will be his last for the company.

Jil Sander thanks Raf Simons for his dedicated commitment to the brand, throughout these years, and wishes him the very best for teh future.  Jil Sander will communicate the appointment of a new creative director in the next few days"

With reports that Jil Sander herself is to return to the helm of the brand, we look forward to any news whether Simons is in fact to take control over at Dior.