Woman's Suit: Jacket and Skirt

Currently not on view

Woman's Suit: Jacket and Skirt

Spring 1949

Designed by Christian Dior (French, 1905–1957) Worn by Mrs. James D. Platt (American, 1915–1972)

Christian Dior brought femininity, grace, and elegance to postwar fashion. In his first collection from 1947, which the editor of "Harper's Bazaar" christened the "New Look", Dior redefined the fashionable silhouette: short skirts, limited in width and length by French wartime restrictions, were replaced by long skirts using yards of fabric; square shoulders gave way to a more natural, rounded look; and nipped-in waists emphasized hips made fuller by pleats or padding, adding a new voluptuousness to the female form. The tailored wool suit, called "Avenue Hoch," from Dior's Spring/Summer 1949 "Trompe l'Oeil" or "Illusion" collection, further develops the design principles of the New Look. Strategically placed pockets emphasize the hips and diminish the waist, while the swing-pleated panel at the back of the skirt adds movement to the silhouette without adding fullness.

Currently not on view

Object Details

Titles:

Woman's Suit: Jacket and Skirt

Date:

Spring 1949

Artists:

Designed by Christian Dior (French, 1905–1957) Worn by Mrs. James D. Platt (American, 1915–1972)

Medium:

Black and white wool twill

Dimensions:

Center Back Length (Jacket): 23 3/4 inches (60.3 cm) Length (Skirt): 28 1/2 inches (72.4 cm)

Classification:

Costume (including accessories)

Credit Line:

Gift of Mrs. James D. Platt, 1972

Accession Number:

1972-120-16a,b

Geography:

Made in Paris, France, Europe

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Currently not on view