Tuesday, January 27, 2009

Runway Review: Christian Dior Couture

John Galliano for Christian Dior Couture wanted to send a message with that people can still appreciate creativity. He tells Style.com that "it's our job to make people dream, and to provide the value in quality, cut, and imagination". I agree that in tough economic times, designers shouldn't cut back on creativity because people should always dream. It's the only way to survive and have hope to make it through desperate situations.

Galliano chose to use Monsier Dior and Flemish painters (Rembrant, Vermeer, Van Dyck) as inspiration for this collection. The Flemish painter inspiration can clearly be seen in the color palatte, sleeve silhouettes, lace and pearl detailing, hats and ruffles. While Monsieur Dior's inspiration can be seen in the very hour glass silhouette with full skirt reminiscent of the 50's New Look.

Black and white continue to be dominant, while soft blues, reds and muted gold tones were also strong. Skirts were either voluminous or slim with soft rounded hip volume. Sleeves were very full and soft or slim and chic. Sheen continues to be important with satins & taffetas adding luster. Multiple Ruffles and Bows lent a certain sweetness to the Historical references. There is a very lady-like and almost conservative look to this collection.

Overall, I felt like it was a strong collection, although I'm not sure how well full sleeves paired with full hips would work for most women. I also wasn't a fan of the oversized collars as they looked a little Mary Poppins/cartoon like, but it is couture and they do add drama.

Voluminous Sleeves, Rounded Hips

Three of my favourite looks from the collection


Painterley flowers remind me of tea cups

2 Very Different looks. Contrasting looks using historical references circa 1660's and combo florals.

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