Guide Note

Dior is a designer clothing line founded by French designer Christian Dior. The line includes apparel for men and women, perfume, purses, sunglasses and other accessories.

Fast Facts

1. HQ: Paris, France
2. CEO: Bernard Arnault
3. Chief designer: John Galliano
4. 1st line: Corolle
5. 1st line premiere: February 12, 1947
6. 1st fashion house: New York City
7. Established: 1949
8. Worldwide boutiques: 160

The New Look, Christian Dior's debut collection, premiered in 1947. Also known as the Corolle line, the signature look was full skirts that fell slightly below the mid-calf, small waists, and large busts. There were also tight skirts with the emphasis on an hourglass silhouette. Corsets played a role in the line by helping achieve the desired curvaceous figure.

After Dior's death in 1957, a 21-year-old Yves Saint Laurent took over the Dior house and saved it from financial ruin. He gave the same meticulous attention to detail and used luxurious fabrics, but he made the clothes lighter and softer. The designers that followed after Laurent's departure in 1960 were Marc Bohan, Gianfranco Ferre and current head designer John Galliano.