Christian Dior

Christian Dior (January 21, 1905 - October 24, 1957) was an influential French fashion designer born in Normandy, France. In 1946 he established his main house of couture in Paris. In twelve years he expanded his business to 15 countries and employed over 2,000 people.

Dior is known mainly for the 1947 "New Look" which employed narrow shoulders, constricted waist, emphasized bust, and long, wide skirt. His designs represented consistent classic elegance, stressing the feminine look. Dior spread his fashions around the world when he and his partner, Jaques Rouet, started liscensing agreements in the fashion industry. In 1953 Yves St. Laurent became his assistant. After his untimely death from a heart attack, the firm continued under Yves St. Laurent, Marc Bohan, Gianfranco Ferre and John Galliano.