Christian Dior's reputation as one of the most important couturiers of the twentieth century was launched in
1947 with his very first collection, in which he introduced the "New Look." Featuring rounded shoulders, a
cinched waist, and very full skirt, the New Look celebrated ultra-femininity and opulence in women's
fashion. After years of military and civilian uniforms, sartorial restrictions and shortages,Dior offered not
merely a new look but a new outlook.

Born and raised in Normandy, France, Dior moved with his parents to Paris when he was ten. After studying
political science, he served in the military. His design career did not begin until 1935, when he returned to
Paris and began selling sketches. (Christian Dior)The designer Robert Piguet hired him in 1938. During World War II, 
Dior served in the south of France, then returned again to Paris in 1941 and worked for Lucien Lelong at a much
larger design house. In 1946, backed by textile manufacturer Marcel Boussac, he opened his own house.

Together with his partner Jacques Rouet, Dior pioneered license agreements in the fashion business. By
1948, he had arranged lucrative licensing deals for fur, stockings, and perfumes, which not only generated
revenue but also made him a household name. While the House of Dior s still a thriving business today,
Dior's untimely death in 1957 left the fashion world without a great dictator of style. Christian Dior designed
under his own name for only a decade, but his influence will be felt for many years to come.