Christian Dior’s “The New Look”
Christian Dior, one of today’s fashion icons, shook the industry of fashion and made a name for himself when he launched his “New Look” Collection way back in 1947.
Back in the 50’s, while their husbands were on the battlefields of World War II, women were finally able to have a taste of independence, something which they never normally had pre-war. Everything – from the clothes they wear to the chores they do – were heavily restricted throughout and just after the war. It was only when the men were away that they began working at jobs they could never normally work in, or wear clothes they could never normally wear when their husbands were home.
In 1947, Christian Dior’s first fashion show in Paris permanently changed the fashion industry and, for the time being, angered a lot of women worldwide. Skirts that were once short and straight in style were now large and puffy that was mid-calf in length. Shoulder portions were softened instead of squared, and hourglass-figured designs instead of the boxy types. There were also skirts that were so fitted that women found it very difficult to walk in.
Because of the quality of the clothes from Christian Dior’s line, it took a lot of effort for women to maintain and required key accessories to achieve a perfect look. However, shortly after World War II ended, when everyone was slowly coming to terms with everything that had happened, people were ready to accept change, and the “New Look” was finally accepted entering into the 50’s period.
The “New Look” was revolutionary and has set in history the kind of fashion the 1950’s had. To this date, the 50’s generation is still highly looked into when coming up with costume ideas for men and women alike.
Oh, and did I mention that it was during the 50’s that Marilyn Monroe and Elvis Presley became famous?
