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The Classicist: Dior and YSL in Paris, 1962

Filed under: Apparel, Books, The Classicist



In 1962, Esquire magazine sent photographer Jerry Schatzberg to Paris to cover the behind-the-scenes action at the Christian Dior and Yves Saint Laurent shows, at what promised to be an historic fashion moment. Indeed it was, and Schatzberg's shoot turned out brilliantly; the full results have finally been collected in book form, under the title Paris 1962: Yves Saint Laurent and Christian Dior, The Early Collections. Schatzberg was no mere paparazzo; a renowned fashion photographer and filmmaker, he's perhaps best known for the cover of Bob Dylan's 1966 album Blonde on Blonde. His journalistic, documentary style ran counter to the usual carefully-posed fashion shoots of the time, which gave the 1962 session added urgency. But first, a little background.

Famed designer Christian Dior had died five years earlier, in 1957. Yves Saint Laurent, only 22 years old at the time, had been named as his replacement, creating a stunning new collection in a matter of weeks. Laurent held the appointment for only a short time, however, as he was soon conscripted to serve in the French army during the Algerian War of Independence. The fragile fashionista lasted less than a month before a nervous breakdown saw him committed to a mental institution. Meanwhile, Marc Bohan had taken over at Dior, leading Saint Laurent to file for breach of contract.

Dior Radioactive Denim

Filed under: Apparel

If you've ever felt the need to spend $600 on a pair of jeans you are in luck. Dior designed these "radioactive" men's jeans that are made of 100% cotton, in a dark wash, with a shiny metallic finish. The five pocket cut and button fly appear pretty standard, as does the slightly tapered leg, so my guess is you are paying for the unique silver "radioactive" look, unless they also repel spills.... or are wind resistant, who knows! Available online and in Dior boutiques for $600.

Dior Samourai 1947 Woven Frame Bag, Handbag of the Day

Filed under: Handbags


From Dior's Fall 2007 collection, this bag is so unusual and sports so many interesting details it is hard to know where to look first. Let's start with the obvious - the woven fuchsia leather. It's a bold color choice and the elaborate pattern is not your standard basket weave. Moving up to the shoulder straps, your eye is drawn to the graceful serpents perched upon the tortoiseshell frame. As if that weren't splashy enough, the leather shoulder straps themselves are twisted in an elaborate design and almost look like extensions of the serpents. Showcasing the Dior logo is a miniature Louis XVI picture frame hanging from a leather strap. Inside, you'll find Dior jacquard lining, a logo tag and a 7 inch zip pocket. With metal feet to protect the base and a pretty snap clasp, this bag is sure to be a must-have for those who can afford the $3900 price tag.

It's a Diorantik Flat!

Filed under: Apparel, Shoes

I've mentioned in my previous post on the Perfect Flat that I have a soft spot for shoes that keep me close to the ground. With wedding season in full-swing, I've decided to invest in a pair of shoes that will last me through the entire matrimonial social season.

The trouble, of course, is that I have a rainbow array of dresses to which I must match my kicks. I've got the Maid of Honor dress for my sister's wedding (pale blue), the bridesmaid dress for my best friend's wedding  (bright pink), and the all-purpose-guest-dress for the other four weddings I must attend (lime green).

Finding a pair of shoes to wear with all of these colors is not for the faint of heart. That's why I've got my eye on Christian Dior's Diorantik flat. This Grecian-inspired sandal has snakeskin-print, braided straps and gold metal Dior buckles. But best of all, they match everything. Price: $485.

They are Diorantik, Diorlicious, and Diormatic!

Dior Embroidered Demin Bag, Handbag of the Day

Filed under: Handbags

Denim doesn't seem to be a material that bags are showing up in very much these days. It's a shame because it's a lovely material that's easy to accessorize and great for casual, day use. Dior's Embroidered Denim Bag is the perfect example. They took a simple, light denim and edged it in a warm, toffee-colored leather, with a logo "D" dangling charm. Shimmering blue floral embroidery almost blends in with the fabric and adds a touch of grace to it. The purse itself is structured, with protective metal feet and magnetic snaps to close it. Pair this bag with the matching embroidered wedges, fitted trousers and a white top. Price: $990.

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