Tuesday, January 26, 2010

Inspiration: John Galliano and Charles James


John Galliano's haute couture shows for Christian Dior never fail to leave me breathless, and his 2020 collection is no exception. Galliano says he was inspired by the Gibson Girl and mid-century couturier Charles James, plus a little bit of equestrian style thrown in for good measure (note riding crop in first pic).
Christian Dior himself credited James as an inspiration for the New Look, so 2010 sees a very post post modern take on the work of one of the greats. Charles James' ballgowns - above are some examples from the Fashion Institute of Technology's collection - were out of this world, and the same can be said of many of these new haute couture wonders. Love the vibrant colours, the luxurious duchesse satin, the draping on the skirts and the artfully constructed bodices.








Apparently teen blogger and fashion wunderkind Tavi was front-row at the show, but I am rather loathe to admit that even though I think she is cute and witty and crazy smart - and that I am delighted that fashion bloggers are really making their mark - I am a bit bereft at this news. This is mainly because it has sharply brought home to me that I am way, way too old to be a prodigy of any sort. Plus what I would have given to be front-row at the Paris haute couture shows at only 14 years of age. Even now, in my early thirties, I may well donate a vital organ. 'Tis all very well to pursue the interwebs for a gander, but imagine getting a birds-eye view of the fabrics and construction and gawking at the fash pack too? I can but dream ...
Thanks to Style.Com for the pics.

2 comments:

The Glamorous Housewife said...

Love your comments regarding the 14 year old blogger. I feel EXACTLY the same way. Color me green with envy. On the other hand, Dita was also there in the front row, we are the same age, and she had to do some light porn to get where she is. So there isn't one path to the front row of Dior ;).

Thanks doll,
The Glamorous Housewife

Ms. B @ Millie Deel said...

Aren't some of those just marvelous creations?! I totally understand your jealous streak when it comes to Tavi. I spent 4 years of blood, sweat and tears to get a fashion degree and here I sit only looking at all of the new collections from afar through the internet. All I can say is some people luck out and some people don't I guess.