The Apple TV+ show “The New Look” centers around Christian Dior’s Paris haute couture debut in 1947, which revolutionized the fashion world with its voluptuous curves and use of material. This collection set trends that would last a decade and sparked fights in the streets. The show suggests a continuation of the storyline into a second season that explores Dior’s establishment of a New York atelier to cater to modern American lifestyles, similar to women designers like Claire McCardell and Elizabeth Hawes.
Maria Grazia Chiuri, the creative director of Dior since 2016, has her own connection to New York, with a desire to bring her vision to the city that has influenced her personal style. This culminated in a show at the Brooklyn Museum, where a retrospective titled “Christian Dior: Designer of Dreams” was hosted in 2021. Chiuri’s approach to design focuses on practicality and adaptability, drawing inspiration from sportswear and denim. She aims to create wardrobes where each piece can be mixed and matched in different ways.
The Christian Dior pre-fall 2024 show at the Brooklyn Museum showcased Chiuri’s collection that references the opening of the Miss Dior boutique in 1967 and the launch of a Paris-made ready-to-wear line by Marc Bohan. The collection featured nipped waist silhouettes from two decades earlier, inspired by designs commissioned by Marlene Dietrich from Dior. One model even sported an outfit reminiscent of the iconic nightclub scene from “Morocco,” complete with a top hat, waistcoat, and tails.
Chiuri’s designs reflect a blend of historical inspiration with modern sensibilities, creating a collection that is both timeless and contemporary. Her focus on functionality and adaptability resonates with a changing fashion landscape that values versatility and wearability. With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of Dior’s legacy, Chiuri continues to push the boundaries of haute couture while honoring the brand’s storied history.
The success of the show at the Brooklyn Museum solidifies Chiuri’s position as a leading figure in the fashion industry, with her innovative approach to design and her ability to bridge the gap between past and present. By incorporating elements of Dior’s iconic past into her collections, she pays homage to the brand’s heritage while offering a fresh perspective on luxury fashion. Chiuri’s work at Dior continues to capture the imagination of audiences worldwide, cementing her legacy as one of the most influential designers of her generation.
