Haute History
106
A sumptuous exhibition in Paris celebrates Christian Dior’s contribution to the world of fashion over 70 years. We take a peek and go star spotting at the opening party
hristian Dior is celebrating seven decades at the leading edge of high fashion with a landmark exhibition at the Museum of Decorative Arts in Paris. Entitled Christian Dior, Designer of Dreams, and curated by French fashion historians Florence Müller and Olivier Gabet, it includes more than 300 exquisite haute couture pieces as well as a range of the house’s iconic accessories, jewellery and perfume bottles. The show’s chronological and themed displays occupy 3,000 square metres and multiple rooms. One particularly show-stopping room is the Nave (centre picture), which is transformed into a romantic ballroom full of exquisite bespoke gowns that were worn by famous friends of the brand. Striking images from legendary photographers reveal the brand’s rich heritage and its partnerships with some of the world’s most talented creatives.
The show also highlights the fact Christian Dior was a keen patron of the arts, displaying a special selection of his personal furniture, paintings and objets d’art. His creative successors at the maison are also given due attention, with specially curated spaces featuring the sketches, letters and designs of Yves Saint Laurent, Marc Bohan, Gianfranco Ferre, John Galliano, Raf Simons and the current artistic director, Maria Grazia Chiuri, illustrating the transformations they have applied to the brand.
Christian Dior, Designer of Dreams, is on display at the Museum of Decorative Arts in Paris until January 7. www.lesartsdecoratifs.fr/en