Friday Fashion: Christian Dior Fall 2013 Haute Couture

Christian Dior haute couture was once my absolute favorite thing about fashion. With now-disgraced John Galliano at the helm, collections were an over-the-top reincarnation of Dior’s glamorous past. Silhouettes were reminiscent of 1950’s Hollywood (think Grace Kelly), always very feminine, decadent, and incredibly theatrical. Feathers, ruffles, tulle, crazy colors,… the couture show was indeed a show.

John Galliano’s Dior, circa 2010, vs. Raf Simons’

(Left) John Galliano’s Dior, circa 2010, vs. (Right) Raf Simons’

That was then; new lead designer Raf Simons is now. After several seasons, I'm still a little bewildered by his approach, primarily because it's so very different. Shapes are streamlined, materials more modern, the mood noticeably less playful. I’m not sure if I'll ever fall for the new Dior, but here are a few looks that, at the very least, piqued my interest.

"It annoys me that couture is thought of as the circus clown of fashion... What interests me is to get down to a more psychological level. To think about individuality, and the cultures women live in." - Raf Simons

I don't know. Even the models look a little sad. We'll see how I feel after a few more collections. Thoughts?

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Perhaps, my favorite look was found outside the show's venue. I love this pic of actress Leelee Sobieski in head-to-toe Dior. Très chic!

Images: (1) Forbes, (2-9) Style.com