Since Nicolas Ghesquière stepped down as the creative director of Balenciaga two weeks ago, rumors have abounded about who would succeed him. 

First came word that it would go to British talent Christopher Kane. But now, The New York Times' Cathy Horyn has identified Alexander Wang as the frontrunner for the job. In a story posted to her blog late Wednesday, Horyn writes that Wang "appears to be the leading candidate," and that, according to a source with knowledge of discussions, "an announcement of his appointment could be made as early as next week." (Purple Magazine, too, leads with the following headline: "According to Purple's Reliable Sources, Alexander Wang is Taking Over At Balenciaga.")

"If Mr. Wang is the choice for Balenciaga," Horyn writes, "he will bring a different perspective, certainly a strong sensibility." She continues: "The choice of a designer like Mr. Wang, who has built a youthful following in New York and elsewhere, certainly suggests a different direction for Balenciaga."