Riccardo Tisci confirming Dior design gig to friends

(AFP PHOTO/FRANCOIS GUILLOT)

Reputed fashion blog Fashionista is reporting that Givenchy's Italian designer is casually telling friends about his move to the French fashion house that recently lost its creative head John Galliano due to an anti-Semitism scandal.

"He's also...openly discussing his move to Dior with certain acquaintances," writes editor Lauren Sherman. "And while we still don't think the official Dior announcement will happen until September, we're pretty sure the deal is sealed."

The news would confirm persistent rumors within the fashion industry: following Galliano's ousting last Paris fashion week, Tisci was the most evident choice for many, with French designer Haider Ackermann expected to take his place at Givenchy.

Tisci, who his known for his dark, gothic-inspired take on fashion, would certainly make for a big aesthetic change at Dior after Galliano's flowerily flamboyant years.