What is New Look style?
New look style is An elegant, feminine silhouette pioneered by French couturier Christian Dior in his 1947 debut collection, Corolle. The name stuck thanks to Harper's Bazaar editor-in-chief Carmel Snow, who exclaimed after the show, "It's such a new look!"
The movement emerged as a reaction to the ascetic and militarized fashion of the Second World War. Dior replaced strict silhouettes, scarce materials, and square shoulders with emphasized luxury, elegance, and a huge use of fabric per garment, ranging from 9 to 40 meters.
Distinctive features
The style's foundation is the hourglass silhouette, which is built on three key features: sloping shoulders, a high bust, and an extremely narrow waist. The bodice of a dress or jacket always fits snugly to the body.
Initially, rigid corsets and hip pads were used to achieve a "wasp" waist. The classic New Look bottom is a full, multi-layered bell-shaped or circle skirt that reaches mid-calf.
A slim pencil skirt was used as a more formal alternative to the full hemline within the same style. It was also worn with a fitted top, creating a classic Dior-inspired silhouette with the "Bar" jacket.
How to wear
In the modern wardrobe, the New Look is worn without rigid corsets. The shape is achieved through a fit-and-flare cut, which features a fitted top and a flared bottom.
The basic combination includes a voluminous A-line midi skirt paired with a fitted top: a turtleneck, bodysuit, or fitted blouse. A must-have styling element is accentuating the waist with a contrasting belt or wide sash.
- Shoes: classic pumps, sandals with thin straps, or kitten heels.
- Accessories: structured, rigid bags with short handles (totes or frame bags), silk scarves and pearl jewelry.
