The Story of Dior

Christian Dior is one of the most iconic and influential fashion designers in history. He was born in Granville, France in 1905 and began his career in the fashion industry in the 1930s, working as a design assistant for Robert Piguet and later for Lucien Lelong. In 1946, he opened his own fashion house in Paris with the help of textile magnate Marcel Boussac.

Dior's first collection, unveiled in 1947, was dubbed the "New Look" and revolutionized the fashion industry. The collection featured soft shoulders, nipped-in waists, and full skirts that emphasized the female form in a way that had never been seen before. The "New Look" was a bold departure from the austere styles of the World War II era, and it quickly became a hit with women around the world.

Tragically, Christian Dior passed away in 1957 at the age of 52, but his legacy lived on through the brand that he had created. Over the years, a series of talented designers have helmed the fashion house, including Yves Saint Laurent, Marc Bohan, Gianfranco Ferré, John Galliano, Raf Simons, and Maria Grazia Chiuri.

Under the leadership of these designers, Dior has continued to innovate and push the boundaries of fashion. The brand has remained a major force in the industry, inspiring designers and fashion enthusiasts around the world.

Christian Dior's impact on the fashion industry can be felt even in the realm of jewellery. The brand has produced some stunning vintage jewellery pieces that are highly sought after by collectors and fashion enthusiasts. Dior's jewellery design was a perfect reflection of the brand's luxurious and sophisticated style, incorporating precious materials and intricate details into each piece. The brand's jewellery collection from the 1960s until the Y2K era was known for its bold and unique designs, featuring statement pieces that often incorporated pearls, crystals, and enamel work.

In the 1960s, Dior jewellery was characterized by the use of gold-tone and silver-tone metals, often featuring intricate detailing and enamel work. The brand's jewellery designs from this era were often inspired by nature, with pieces featuring delicate flowers, leaves, and animals. Dior's "Mimioui" collection, which was introduced in the 1960s, featured dainty pieces crafted from gold-tone metal and often adorned with precious stones. These pieces were delicate, yet intricate and they remain popular among collectors to this day.

In the 1970s and 80s, Dior's jewellery designs became bolder and more adventurous. The brand's "Miss Dior" collection, introduced in 1973, featured chunky, oversized pieces crafted from gold-tone metal and often adorned with colored enamel. These pieces were bold and colorful, incorporating intricate detailing and unique shapes. The collection was a hit, and many of these pieces remain highly sought after by collectors.

In the 1990s and early 2000s, Dior's jewellery designs continued to evolve, incorporating new materials and innovative techniques. The brand's "Gourmette" collection, introduced in 1996, featured bold and chunky chain-link necklaces and bracelets crafted from gold-tone metal and often adorned with crystals and pearls.

The Y2K period was a time of great experimentation in fashion and design, and the Dior brand was no exception. During this time, Dior released a series of innovative and daring jewellery collections that pushed the boundaries of traditional design.

One of the most iconic Dior Y2K jewellery collections was designed by John Galliano. The collection was heavily inspired by the punk and goth subcultures and featured bold, edgy designs that were a departure from the more classic and elegant pieces that the brand had become known for. The Galliano Dior Y2K jewellery collection featured chunky metal cuffs, studded chokers, and heavy necklaces that were adorned with skulls and other macabre symbols. The pieces were often finished with industrial-looking hardware, such as chains, bolts, and padlocks, which added to their hard-edged aesthetic.

In addition to the Galliano collection, Dior also released a range of jewellery designs that were more in keeping with the brand's classic elegance. These pieces often featured delicate details and intricate craftsmanship, such as the "Gourmette" collection, which was characterized by its fine chains and small, round pendants. 

Dior's impact on the fashion industry cannot be overstated. From its humble beginnings in 1946, the brand has become a global fashion phenomenon, known for its iconic designs and impeccable craftsmanship. Dior's jewellery collection is a testament to the brand's commitment to quality and luxury, incorporating unique shapes, high-quality materials, and intricate details into each piece. Whether it's a vintage piece from the 1960s or a modern design from Maria Grazia Chiuri, Dior's jewellery designs continue to be a source of inspiration and admiration around the world.