With standing ovation led by Anna Wintour and two-time heartfelt final bow, it was one of the most touching and sensational moments in recent fashion history, totally topped Tom Ford’s departure in 2004. Rumor has it that Raf Simons will head to Dior replacing Galliano’s abdicated seat and Hedi Slimane will head to YSL as Stefano Pilati’s contract will be up in few weeks –  got to the point where it all sounds like facts in Paris and online. If it’s real, it’d bring both brands one big step forward with much anticipation as both - menswear originated candidates will work and face each other in the old world of couture (although YSL is no longer/ cannot produce couture, but you know what I mean. I bet Kris van Assche at Dior Homme won’t stay long either). We’ve seen Simons’ workmanship in womenswear at Jil Sander, especially in the last four heavily-couture inspired seasons, but Slimane has yet done a women’s collection. Also, throughout the years, some media suggested what Slimane achieved at Dior Homme owed a big debt of gratitude to Simons’ body of work. Has he got something new to say in the YSL world today, or is it gonna be Dior Homme in smaller size once again? Sure all these changes will conjure up much excitement. Together with Tisci at Givenchy, Philo at Celine, Ghesquiere at Balenciaga, Sander at Jil Sander and the good old Miuccia, we are about to see a very competitive fashion facelift. Ironically though, it all partly started by a drunkard talent shouting “I love Hitler” exactly a year ago. If we see his come back sooner, it’ll all be even more delirious. As I wrap up, I found Suzy like-mind Menkes saying we are all guilty for this mess, what do you think?

UPDATE (26 Feb): Do we take this as a confirmation? Do we expect to see Stefano’s teary eyes?

UPDATE (27 Feb): Stefano Pilati leaves YSL, AW2012 will be his last. Some suggest his next step could be Armani which seems a good fit, but I’d put Cerruti and Ferre on the list too.

UPDATE (4 Mar): Raf was dismissed for Sander’s return.