Christian Ernest Dior (21 January 1905 – 24 October 1957) was a French fashion designer and founder of the globally renowned Christian Dior SE. Gaining fame on five continents in a decade, Dior worked with fashion icons during World War II to help sustain the industry.
In 1947, he launched the “New Look” collection, defined by rounded shoulders, cinched waist, and full skirts, promoting ultra-femininity and opulence. Dior’s work earned him multiple Best Costume Design awards. He died in 1957, leaving a lasting fashion legacy.
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Christian Dior Net Worth
Christian Dior had a net worth of $10 million at his death in 1957. Today, Christian Dior Couture has a market cap of $90.41 billion USD. Delphine Arnault, Chairman and CEO of Dior, expressed gratitude for the company’s achievements.
Her father, Bernard Arnault, CEO of LVMH and worth around $178 billion, appointed her as CEO and Chair of Dior. All five of Arnault’s children work for LVMH or its luxury brands, continuing the family legacy in high fashion.
Early life
Christian Dior was born in Granville, Normandy, France, the second of five children to Maurice Dior, a wealthy fertilizer manufacturer, and Madeleine Martin. His siblings included Raymond, Jacqueline, Bernard, and Catherine Dior. The family moved to Paris when he was five.
Though expected to become a diplomat, Dior pursued art, selling sketches for money. In 1928, he opened an art gallery with support from his father, showcasing works by Picasso and befriending artists like Dalí, Cocteau, and Giacometti. The gallery closed in 1931 due to family tragedy and financial ruin.
Career
In 1946, entrepreneur Marcel Boussac invited Christian Dior to design for Philippe et Gaston, but Dior declined, choosing to launch his own label. With Boussac’s backing, Dior founded the House of Dior, securing exclusive control and a share of profits.
His first collection, named Corolle, debuted on 12 February 1947 with 90 garments. Carmel Snow of Harper’s Bazaar coined the term “New Look” for it. The line featured voluptuous designs inspired by Edwardian fashion. Pierre Cardin led tailoring, designing the iconic 1947 Bar suit.
Personal life
Christian Dior died of a third heart attack on 24 October 1957 while on vacation in Montecatini, Italy, during a card game in the late afternoon. He was survived by Jacques Benita, a North African singer three decades younger than Dior. Benita was the last of Dior’s discreet male lovers.
Dior’s death marked the sudden end of a revolutionary career in fashion, but his legacy lived on through the continued success of the House of Dior and influence on global style and design.
Who is Christian Dior owned by?
Today, the Christian Dior brand is owned by LVMH (Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton SE), with Bernard Arnault serving as Chairman and CEO. The Arnault family is the major shareholder, having consolidated control over the brand through a $13.1 billion buyout in 2017.
Conclusion
Christian Dior’s impact on fashion is indelible. From his “New Look” to his innovative business strategies, Dior not only revolutionized women’s wardrobes but also established a blueprint for modern haute couture. His legacy endures, with the Dior brand continuing to be a leading name in luxury fashion.
FAQs about Christian Dior
- What was the significance of the “New Look”?
- The “New Look” marked a return to luxury and elegance in women’s fashion post-World War II, emphasizing femininity and grace.
- How did Christian Dior change the fashion industry?
- Dior reestablished Paris as the heart of the fashion world, introduced luxury ready-to-wear, and set new standards for the presentation and marketing of fashion.
- Was Christian Dior involved in any other industries?
- While primarily focused on fashion, Dior also ventured into perfumes, most notably with the launch of Miss Dior, named after his sister Catherine.
- What awards did Christian Dior win?
- Dior received several accolades, including nominations for the Academy Award for Best Costume Design and the BAFTA for Best British Costume.
- Who succeeded Christian Dior?
- Yves Saint Laurent, then only 19, was personally chosen by Dior to succeed him shortly before his untimely death in 1957.
