There had been much speculation that Jonathan Anderson, renowned for his creative flights of fancy, might take over both Dior's men's and women's collections, which some observers had seen as needing fresh impetus.

The charismatic designer will succeed Kim Jones, the house confirmed on Thursday, ending months of intense speculation.

Jonathan Anderson has been named artistic director of Christian Dior Couture men’s collections, according to a press release Thursday. The announcement came shortly after LVMH CEO Bernard Arnault said Anderson will design the next Christian Dior men’s show in Paris on June 27.