Designer Galliano suspended for anti-Semitic slurs

Only weeks after he showcased what was arguably the most celebrated, sophisticated fall-winter couture collection, British designer John Galliano, 50, has been suspended from the House of Dior.

Today, AFP reports that Christian Dior suspended Galliano after police detained the designer for allegedly assaulting a couple and using anti-Semitic slurs at the La Perle Cafe, a popular bar in the Marais district of Paris.

While, Galliano's lawyer is denying the accusations of anti-Semitism, Sidney Toledano, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Christian Dior Couture, issued a statement:

Christian Dior has an unequivocal zero-tolerance policy regarding anti-Semitism and racism. Pending the results of the inquiry, Christian Dior has suspended John Galliano from his responsibilities.

Galliano has been the chief designer at Christian Dior since 1996. It is unclear how this suspension will affect the Dior show scheduled for March 4, or his own label's show during next week's Paris Fashion Week.