GRACIE – Christian Dior – 70 fabulous years

The National Gallery of Victoria is presenting the world-premier exhibition The House of Dior: Seventy Years of Haute Couture with a spectacular display of over 140 garments from Christian Dior Couture designed 1947 to 2017. Inspired by the iconic staircase from the Paris couture house, the exhibition features a lavish staircase to a mezzanine level and well designed platforms all providing a real feast of design narrating the House’s rich history.

The House of Dior: Seventy Years of Haute Couture Exhibition Photograph: GRACIE

The positioning of the garments, the use of mirror and lighting provides unrestricted viewing and ease of access. All the garments can be viewed from every angle. We got up close and personal – it’s something to experience.

The House of Dior: Seventy Years of Haute Couture Exhibition Photograph: GRACIE

Christian Dior’s timing was ideal when he introduced a new post-war silhouette dubbed the ‘New Look’ by Harper’s Bazaar. Femininity was rediscovered with the rounded shoulders, boned bodices, nipped-in waists and full skirts. He was all about the woman inside.

Christian Dior Mexico evening dress Spring/Summer 1953 from the Christian Dior Tulip line Photograph: GRACIE

Christian Dior: Promise reception dress Slender Line Autumn/Winter 1957/58 Silk

Christian Dior Mexico, evening dress 1953 Tulip line Spring/summer 1953 silk organza Photograph: GRACIE

The exhibition also includes a fabulous collection of designs by Christian Dior’s successive designers, Yves Saint Laurent, Marc Bohan, Gianfranco Ferre, John Galliano, Raf Simons and the newly appointed Maria Grazia Chiuri.

Yves Saint Laurent (designer) Marilyn short evening dress (L) and Zenaide short evening dress 1959 1960 Line Silk (taffeta) Photograph: GRACIE

Marc Bohan (designer) Look 103 1986 spring-summer silk (taffeta) Photograph: GRACIE

Just when you think you’ve chosen a favourite, a few steps further on and you discover another. Where to begin?

It’s all so elegant …..

Christian Dior, Paris (fashion house); Gianfranco Ferré (designer) Disney, evening suit 1989. Ascot – Cecil Beaton collection, autumn−winter 1989–90. Dior Heritage collection, Paris. Photo © Giovanni Gastel.

so luxurious …

John Galliano (designer) Theodora, evening ensemble 1997 Photograph: GRACIE

so now …

Christian Dior, Paris (fashion house); Maria Grazia Chiuri (designer) Models wearing spring−summer 2017. Dior Heritage collection, Paris. Photo © Morgan O’Donovan.

and so spectacular.