>> Even though some think Olivier Theyskens's standing at Nina Ricci is tenuous because of his tendancy to produce expensive gowns, unmindful of current economic conditions, as of yesterday, he didn't seem worried — not yet anyway: “I am totally committed to Nina Ricci. None of us really know from where such rumors come up, but we are feeling very confident that things are going in the right place.”

Mario Grauso, president of Nina Ricci's parent company Puig Fashion, promised in December that Olivier would remain at the house at least through the expiration of his current contract — which is up in October: “At this point, we’re very happy with his contribution.  I look forward to seeing his next show, after which we’ll start the negotiations, which is typical.”

Yesterday, Grauso reiterated that he was behind Theyskens: "I feel like, as soon as I hire somebody, there’s rumors about them leaving.  To be honest, Olivier and I haven’t started to renegotiate, but right now we’re fine. I can’t help but be pleased. He’s done a great job.”  But it sounds like the Fall 2009 Nina Ricci show is key for Olivier, since Grauso is looking for him to tone down the extravagance, and would not disclose sales volume for the label: “[We're] trying to keep the prices down as much as we can; now’s not the time for $25,000 dresses.”
*image: source