Friday, December 23, 2011

The Little Dictionary of Fashion

If you frequent Anthropologie, Urban Outfitters, or pretty much any fashion boutique that carries books, you have likely come across this little piece of heaven.

I was delighted to open an early present from my boyfriend and find this magical 126- page fashion dictionary.  Although I had eyed it from time to time at the aforementioned stores, I never really spent time perusing it.  Well, let me tell you- I was missing out.

This book is utter fashion genius, and not surprisingly, written by Christian Dior.  Christian Dior's designs are so iconic that any piece with a cinched waist, sloping shoulders, and a full skirt is compared to his 1947 New Look.  Desiring to create clothing that would make women feel like women again after World War II, Dior created architectural feats of beauty that emphasized the essence of being female and defined the 1950s silhouette.  

Here are designs by Dior featuring the "New Look."



This little fashion dictionary features vintage photographs from Dior's own designs while Mr. Dior himself teaches us how to dress stylishly at every occasion.   One of Christian's beliefs that I myself share, and couldn't help but cheer when I read it in his words, is this:

"Many people dismiss haute couture as being something that is only for the wealthy.  But it is possible for a woman to be elegant without spending very much on her clothes, if she follows the basic rules of fashion and is careful to choose the clothes that suit her personality. Simplicity, good taste, and grooming are the three fundamentals of good dressing and these do not cost money." - Christian Dior

{Dior RTW Spring/Summer 2012 via NY Mag}

{Dior RTW Spring/Summer 2012 via NY Mag}

I believe, just as Dior did, that architecture and fashion design are interchangeable, and every woman should know how to dress her own body.  I have often been met with animosity when expressing my love for designer fashion.  I think many people feel following fashion is a frivolous affair and that time should be spent on nobler causes.  I always find this surprising, mainly because people fail to realize how much they covey simply by how they dress.  Fashion isn't something only the wealthy can indulge in or care about.  Rather, every person should learn their body, their architecture, and design themselves accordingly.  Choose clothes that are simple in line and pay great attention to fit.   If fashion and design overwhelm you, well, I recommend you read Mr. Dior's book.  :)

12 comments:

  1. Do you have any idea how excited I am that you love Dior?! It is my have next to Chanel! I just did a post yesterday on a Dior handbag! All of these looks are gorgeous!!!!

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  2. Oh wow, this book sounds like a must-have for me! I really like what Christian Dior said about not spending too much on clothes. If you know what looks good on you, what is classy, etc., you can make it work within a budget.

    I love your blog!

    http://bethesong.blogspot.com

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  3. This book has been on my list forever! Seems like a classic every woman should own. That coral dress is killing me right now! So chic, so feminine, yet simple and modern. Love!

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  4. I love the Dior RTW S/S 2012 collection. I can't wait until Spring.

    Have a wonderful Christmas :)

    xo
    Delia
    http://www.lovelaughlipglosses.com/

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  5. I've definitely had it conveyed to me that caring about your appearance and loving fashion is self-indulgent. But I see nothing wrong with it, as long as it doesn't consume my life!

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  6. Ooo! What a good present!

    Also, I am hosting a giveaway on my blog right now! Come check it out! www.ExclusiveElements.etsy.com is going to be giving a reader a super cute and modern (chevron, damask, paisley, etc.) table runner of your choice!

    http://www.sarahleeweaver.com/search/label/giveaway

    ReplyDelete
  7. Great thoughts! I totally agree with you, people look at fashion as frivolous, but I see it as wearable art- especially couture pieces! No one looks at painting or sculpture as frivolous, so why should clothing be any different? This looks like a fantastic book!

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  8. oh my gosh...what a fabulous gift!! I want to pick one up!! MERRY CHRISTMAS LOVE!!

    <3Amanda
    feast.fashion.faves

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  9. I love that book! Christian Dior is simply divine :)

    XX Kathryn
    http://lacoquettedumode.wordpress.com/

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  10. I think I need this "bible" asap! Thanks for sharing. Hope you had a lovely Christmas!

    xox

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