Christian Dior-New York satin evening gown, c.1950
The gown was created within a few years of Dior's revolutionary New Look (1947), the name given by Life Magazine to his Corolle line. His timing made his name. After the war women longed for frivolity in dress and wanted feminine clothes that did not look like a civilian version of a military uniform.
Like the best from Dior's breakout style, this lovely gown celebrates prettiness for its own sake—which is more than enough for human eyes. The New Look was the most efficient means for the renovation of fashion at which Christian Dior aimed.
The gown is fashioned from substantial weight pewter-colored satin. I love the obi-style large bow that dominates the design. The construction shows the attention to detail expected in a high-end gown: the gown is totally lined with silk organza; the attached inner bodice of ivory satin is boned; the metal zippers (one on the under bodice and one on the skirt) are hand stitched; and there are no visible raw seams.
Christian Dior came to the United States in 1947 at the invitation of Nieman Marcus to be presented with their design Oscar. He was shocked to find copies of his work already appearing in American store windows. He decided to transform commercial theft into an opportunity. He announced, "What we are selling is ideas."
When Christian Dior-New York was launched in 1948, Dior's personal couture activity was transformed into a business empire that became model for the fashion industry. The New York subsidiary had its own flavor, producing styles designed specially for the American market. The styles, fabrics, labels, and strict instructions for assembly were purchased from Dior by American high-end stores—see a picture of the label below.
Whether a Dior gown is couture or is made by one of the subsidiaries, the look is always elegant and harmonious. The timeless appeal of Dior gowns has made them the standard for beauty and value.
vintagetextile.com
! Women used to be so elegant! I love the zig zag dress, looks quite uncomfortable though
, but suffering for beauty, no? Thanks for the pics.
