In 1947, a certain Christian Dior launched his first couture collection and sparked at the same time a revolution of the feminine wardrobe. Waists are cinched, enhancing the busom, and his iconic bar suit sketches a new silhouette much more glamour and sensual. A fashion earthquake that opened the royal way for the « New Look » and the beginning of a new stylistic era in post-war France: the 50’s.
A glorious period for French fashion showcased at Palais Galliera for an exhibition with many references to the masters of that era: Balenciaga, Pierre Balmain, Hubert de Givenchy, Carven, Chanel and others just as talented whose names have gone by the wayside (Jacques Heim, Jacques Fath and Jacques Griffe).
The disappearance of Monsieur Dior closed the decade. It’s the turn of Yves Saint-Laurent, his successor to ensure a new turning point, but that’s another story…
We like: a hundred archive pieces (bodices, cocktail dresses, travel ensemble, pointy pumps) and a stunning scenography of evening dresses in a ball room!
Les années 50, La mode en France, 1947-1957, from 12 July to 2 November 2014.
Tuesday to Sunday from 10am to 6pm, except on holidays. Late night on Thursday until 9pm.
Full rate 8 €
©Eric Emo/ Galliera/ Roger-Viollet