The House of Christian Dior was founded on December 16, 1946, just weeks prior to his first, spellbinding collection, ‘New Look’, formerly known as the two lines, ‘Corolle’ and ‘Huit’. The morning of February 12, 1947, was one of both chaos and great anticipation, as clamorous crowds gathered like honey bees to 30, Avenue Montaigne, Paris, anxiously awaiting the debut collection by the powerhouse of a couturier, Christian Dior. Notable figures amongst the crowds included Harper’s Bazaar editor Carmel Snow; Lady Diana Cooper, Viscountess Norwich; and Bettina Ballard of American Vogue. Ballard spoke of the ‘electric tension’ on the day of the show and discussed an atmosphere that she “had never before felt in the couture”, highlighting the impact of Dior’s ‘New Look’, which launched the fashion house into success.  Interestingly, it is rumoured that Harper’s Bazaar editor Carmel Snow inadvertently named the collection following the show, as she wrote in a letter to Dior, “It’s quite a revolution, dear Christian! Your dresses have a new look”

  

The collection celebrated ultra-femininity, extravagant designs, and curve-accentuating silhouettes, including full skirts that sat just over 14mm from the floor, padded hips, corset waists, and rounded busts, all in which juxtaposed the minimal, modest attire of the Second World War. Despite the immense success and popularity, Dior’s ‘New Look’ was also haunted by controversy. 

‘New Look’ VS ‘Old Look’

‘New Hollywood’

Ava Gardner, Ingrid Bergman, Marlene Dietrich, Lauren Bacall - four actresses that introduced Dior to the silver screen. Following their debuts wearing Dior’s designs, any doubts and criticisms fizzled into the backdrop of an era of magnificently dressed movie stars. 

“No Dior – No Dietrich!”

Shop our Alla dress inspired by the 1950s!