A year after the fashion house
of Dior was founded; Christian released his first collection Corolle. Dubbed ‘New Look’ by then
editor-and-chief of Harper’s Bazaar,
Dior’s designs were controversial. Lovers of fashion and important figures in the industry were
divided due many being appalled at the extravagant amount of fabric used, in
comparison to what people were used to buying with their clothing stamps.
Dior used slim fitting bustier
style bodices paired with full, A-line or bell shaped skirts that were hemmed
at mid-calf. When wearing these garments correctly, one would need to purchase
a petticoat. Optionally, a waist cincher, corselet or other waist binding
undergarment would be worn.
To achieve this look, I've created 3 outfits to wear to various occasions. These dresses and skirts
probably won’t be something that you’ll find in your wardrobe. I’ll provide
some links on places you could buy these skirts and dresses as they are
essential to achieving the look.
Day Wear
For a day wear look, you have
the option not only to wear a simple dress, but also to wear a nice blouse and
the skirt.
Originally this was set as an
office wear outfit, but after looking closer, I've decided it’s more
appropriate for everyday wear, despite the fact I've used a dress. The grey woolen dress is teamed with a cute beige trench coat. I've accessorized with a
pearl necklace, gold-chain watch and a quilted beige handbag. Lastly some plain
black pumps, this outfit would be great for going to the shops, or grabbing a
coffee with friends.
Office Wear
In the office, a lighter
petticoat would be more practical and work-friendly. This opens up doors to
wearing a coat over it, as with a full skirt one should tuck in their top (if
it isn't already cropped).
As I said before, this was
originally mean to be the day wear ensemble. This means it’s a little dressy
for the office, but I’m okay if you’re okay. I've combined a cropped beige
blazer with a brown pleated skirt and sleeveless ivory blouse. Worn with a hat
and open-toed, beige heels, you could dress this down by switching the heels to
flats or nixing the hat (personally, I like the hat for the office look). I've accessorized with a quilted beige handbag (wow, again! Ha-ha),a gold pearl
bangle and pearl earrings. I’m quite happy with this ensemble, it’s not often
you see an office outfit with a full skirt!
Evening Wear
A dress is mostly appropriate
for evening wear. Something made of a luxurious material and featuring short
sleeves would do the trick.
I thought about using a silk
dress, I did. I even found one that was pretty nice. However, when I came
across this chiffon gem, I was sold. It’s just a marvelous evening dress. I
paired it with some pale pink kitten heels and a lace cape. The dress steals
the show, I’d even go without the cape if it isn't too chilly, which is why I've accessorized simply with pearl earrings, white gloves and a satin clutch.
I think in this outfit, you’d want more volume in the petticoat than those
previous.
Where to buy full skirts and
dresses
-
Ebay – You have to
be weary about quality for many stores, however you can find some great vintage
pieces for cheap prices.
-
Modcloth – A bit
more pricier than you’ll find on Ebay, but probably safer on quality
-
Bettie PageClothing – All new, and more expensive than the other stores. Many of these
dresses look amazing.
-
If you want to dip
into the pond of alternative fashion, my first and second outfit’s major pieces
are from a Lolita fashion store in Japan called Mary Magdalene. Their
prices are about double of Bettie Page Clothing, but the quality is perfection.
WARNING: Do not, under any
circumstance, buy from the company Milanoo. I have seen way too many horror
stories come from this web store. While the prices may look cheap, you’ll end
up with a bunch of satin rags stitched together flimsily and called a dress.
Seriously, save yourself tears.
Whew! It was great talking
about an item and collection that I love so much. I hope you enjoyed reading
it, like I enjoyed writing it. My next post is titled ‘Giulietta's Pre-Fall 2013 collection’. Do you like
vintage Dior? Or do you prefer the slimmer silhouettes of the 40’s? Thoughts?
Vintage Fashion, Modern Approach.
Love Claire, xo.
Very classy and elegant styles :) Thank you for sharing it! xo akiko
ReplyDeleteStyle Imported
Thank you for your comment :)
DeleteYou have a lovely blog