Christian Dior

Christian Dior was a French fashion designer who founded the House of Dior and helped define postwar women’s fashion with the 1947 “New Look.” He became one of the most influential couturiers of the 20th century, and the Dior name later expanded into a global luxury brand.

Christian Dior was a French fashion designer who founded the House of Dior and helped define postwar women’s fashion with the 1947 “New Look.” He became one of the most influential couturiers of the 20th century, and the Dior name later expanded into a global luxury brand.

What it is

Christian Dior (1905–1957) was a French couturier who launched his own fashion house in 1946 with backing from Marcel Boussac. His first collection in 1947 introduced the “New Look,” featuring a cinched waist, rounded shoulders, and a full skirt. The style reshaped women’s fashion and brought Dior international fame.

Why it matters

Dior’s New Look re-centred Paris as a fashion capital after World War II and defined the postwar feminine silhouette. His house later grew into a diversified luxury brand known for couture, fragrance, accessories, and beauty products. Dior’s influence continues through successive designers and the brand’s global prominence.

Key details

Dior was born in Granville, Normandy, on 21 January 1905 and died on 24 October 1957 at age 52 in Montecatini Terme, Italy. After his death, the House of Dior expanded into a major luxury brand with perfumes, accessories, and other goods. As of 2025, Jonathan Anderson serves as creative director for Dior’s women’s, men’s, and haute couture collections.