Pre-Fall 2012: Christian Dior
For years, Christian Dior has exhibited an over-the-top theatrical aesthetic with a flamboyant vibe that obviously screamed John Galliano. But since Galliano has been dethroned and Bill Gaytten has taken over as design director, the Parisian fashion house has received a much-needed makeover. The makeover began in Spring with a pretty but safe collection of girly dresses. And now, as Gaytten has settled into his position and built up some confidence, Pre-Fall showed a new, classier- than-ever Dior.
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To construct a new Dior, Gaytten began at the most appropriate starting point: Dior’s old archives. Brilliant iconic silhouettes from the brand’s colorful past were revived for a sharp, modern update. Gaytten focused on pieces perfect for layering, including belt-cinching peplum jackets, double-breasted wool outwear, knit shrugs, dropped-waist dresses and tweed cocoon coats.
The different separates were mixed and matched with the season’s must-have staples – slim turtlenecks, opaque tights, and a choice of bell-shaped or pencil skirts. The result was an impeccably well-put-together collection that was, quite possibly, the most wearable Dior has produced in years.
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Gaytten didn’t lose his stride either when it came to the eveningwear. The gowns were effortlessly elegant and could easily make any fashion lover do a double take. There were eye-catching looks of soft pink satin drop-waist dresses with collar embellishments, floor-length halter gowns, column gowns with cropped jackets with slits in the back and a floor-sweeping skirt paired with a cobalt-blue bodice top.
Considering the success of this Pre-Fall collection, it’s a good thing Gaytten followed his own sense of style rather than try to emulate Galliano’s. The breath of fresh air continued with the collection lookbook’s street-style photography, proving Dior is modern once again.
This article was contributed by Annette Tang of the VersaStyle. You can follow Annette and her fashion adventures on Twitter at @theversastyle.
Tagged in: paris, runway, christian dior, dior, bill gaytten, pre-fall, pre-fall 2012,
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