Christian Dior

Paris, France

1946

Christian Dior is a legendary French fashion house that redefined post-war elegance with the 'New Look,' and continues to innovate with modern luxury under creative directors Maria Grazia Chiuri and Kim Jones.

Creative Director: Maria Grazia Chiuri (Women's), Kim Jones (Men's)

Signature Elements: The 'New Look' silhouette (cinched waist and full skirt), Bar suit, Dior Saddle Bag, intricate embroidery, and floral motifs inspired by Christian Dior's love of gardens.

Christian Dior | Couturer Curated High Fashion

History

Founded in 1946 by Christian Dior, the house of Dior revolutionized fashion with its debut collection in 1947, introducing the iconic 'New Look' that celebrated femininity and elegance. Following Dior's untimely death in 1957, the brand was helmed by a series of brilliant designers, including Yves Saint Laurent, Marc Bohan, Gianfranco Ferré, and John Galliano. Today, Dior thrives under Maria Grazia Chiuri for women's collections and Kim Jones for Dior Men, blending heritage with contemporary influences.

Brand Philosophy

Dior is synonymous with sophistication, innovation, and timeless elegance, celebrating the beauty of femininity and the artistry of couture.

Christian Dior | Couturer Curated High Fashion

Major Milestones

  • 1947: Launch of the 'New Look,' revolutionizing post-war fashion.
  • 1957: Yves Saint Laurent becomes the youngest creative director in Dior's history.
  • 1996: John Galliano reinvigorates Dior with dramatic and theatrical designs.
  • 2016: Maria Grazia Chiuri becomes the first woman to lead Dior’s women's collections.

Timeline

  • House of Dior Founded

    1946-12-16

    Christian Dior establishes his fashion house with backing from entrepreneur Marcel Boussac.

  • Debut of the 'New Look'

    1947-02-12

    Dior's first collection introduces the 'New Look,' revolutionizing women's fashion with a focus on femininity and luxury.

  • John Galliano Appointed Creative Director

    1996-10-01

    Galliano brings dramatic flair and theatricality to Dior, revitalizing the brand.

  • Maria Grazia Chiuri Joins Dior

    2016-07-08

    Chiuri becomes the first female creative director of Dior, emphasizing modern femininity and empowerment.

Current Status

Dior remains a leader in luxury fashion, offering haute couture, ready-to-wear, accessories, and fragrances. Maria Grazia Chiuri continues to innovate with feminist-inspired collections, while Kim Jones elevates Dior Men with sleek tailoring and contemporary influences.

Key Collections

Spring/Summer 1947 - 'New Look'

Christian Dior's debut collection featuring the 'New Look' silhouette, redefining elegance with a cinched waist and voluminous skirts.

Fall/Winter 1997 - John Galliano's Opulence

Galliano's theatrical couture showcased a blend of historical and avant-garde designs, redefining modern haute couture.

Trivia

  • Christian Dior was originally trained as a political scientist before turning to fashion.
  • The Dior Saddle Bag, designed by John Galliano in 1999, became a pop culture icon in the early 2000s.

Cultural Impact

Dior shaped post-war fashion and continues to inspire designers, artists, and celebrities worldwide. The brand's legacy is intertwined with luxury, creativity, and cultural relevance.

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