The Biggest Fashion News Headlines of 2012

Even though acting designer Bill Gaytten turned out a lovely couture collection in January, speculation of who would officially replace 2011's fallen hero John Galliano had reached fever pitch by the time the ready-to-wear shows kicked off in February.

Then, in the middle of Milan Fashion Week, came the shocking news that Raf Simons — a rumored candidate for Dior — would be leaving
his post at Jil Sander. His final show
for the house two days later was so breathtaking that it garnered an emotional standing ovation and, with its modern take on New Look silhouettes, reignited rumors that Simons was the frontrunner for the Paris job after all.

Six weeks later, a year and a half's worth of gossip was finally put to bed. Simons was named
creative director of Dior.

Photo courtesy of Dior