Christian Dior

Early Life and Background

Christian Dior is a world-renowned fashion designer who founded the world’s top fashion house called Christian Dior SE. He is best known for revolutionizing women’s fashion after World War II with his “New Look” collection in 1947. He was credited with creating many influential designs such as the “H-Line”, the “A-Line”, and the “Y-Line”.

Childhood and Education

Dior was born in Granville, France. He came from a wealthy family background. His father was a fertilizer manufacturer. He developed a passion for art from his childhood and sold his fashion sketches outside his house for 10 cents each. He enrolled at Sciences Po in Paris. However, he dropped out to pursue his artistic interests. He opened a small art gallery in 1928 where he sold paintings by Picasso and other artists. However, the gallery closed three years later during the Great Depression.

Early Career in Fashion

Dior then began working as a fashion illustrator for newspapers and magazines. He sold his sketches to couturiers such as Robert Piguet, who hired him as a designer in 1937. Piguet taught him the basics of haute couture and praised his talent and simplicity. He also worked with Pierre Balmain and Marc Bohan who later became his successor at Dior. He served in the French Army during World War II.

Foundation of the Dior Fashion House

Dior started his own fashion office in 1946 with financial help from textile tycoon, Marcel Boussac. He hired a team of craftsmen and assistants. He presented his first collection for Spring-Summer 1947 which was dubbed the “New Look” by Carmel Snow, the editor-in-chief of Harper’s Bazaar. The collection was an instant success and brought worldwide fame to Dior.

Innovative Designs and Expanding Influence

Dior continued to create innovative designs that defined the trend of each season. He introduced new shapes and styles such as the “H-Line”, which emphasized straight lines and simplicity; the “A-Line”, which flared out from the shoulders to hem; and the “Y-Line”, which had a narrow waist and a wide skirt. He also expanded his line to include perfume, jewellery, accessories, and ready-to-wear.

Death and Legacy

Dior died of a heart attack in 1957 while on vacation in Italy. His death came as a shock to the fashion world. He was succeeded by Yves Saint Laurent who was his assistant since 1955. Saint Laurent continued Dior’s vision while maintaining his youthfulness and modernity.