This is not a thing. This can’t be a thing. We know the chances of this happening are close to nil and even the Tom Ford team has vehemently denied it, but rumors are bouncing around the Twittersphere that Ford is on the short list for the creative director position at Gucci. Last month we reported that Frida Giannini would be leaving the helm of the brand in February, but it seems she’s taken an early leave and officially vacated her position as of Monday. While it seems their men and women’s Fall 15/16 lines will still present in the coming weeks as planned, this leaves Gucci scrambling for a creative director a month and half earlier than expected. And, of course, Tom Ford’s name popped up. Whether or not this is just wishful thinking on our part their part, and a legitimate offer will be extended, it’s too soon to say.

Tom Ford spent over a decade at the Italian house, rebranding the once flailing company before his (very public) departure in 2004. It’s been 11 years, and in that time his eponymous brand has grown exponentially and is frequently worn by fashion icons like Rihanna and Miley Cyrus. His name is synonymous with sexuality and he has won both awards and recognition in the past decade. In his personal life, he’s gotten married, adopted a son, and seems focused on being there as much as possible for his family. So to think he would return to Gucci after such personal success (not to mention their public fallout) would be ludicrous—right?