christian dior 10 facts | why did Christian Dior start

Christian Dior, a name synonymous with haute couture, timeless elegance, and revolutionary design, left an indelible mark on the world of fashion. His "New Look" redefined post-war femininity and revitalized the Parisian fashion scene. But beyond the glamorous image, who was Christian Dior? This article delves into ten fascinating facts about the man behind the brand, exploring his personal life, artistic inclinations, and the circumstances that led to the birth of a fashion empire.

1. The Diplomat Dream That Never Was:

Christian Dior's early life was steeped in bourgeois respectability. Born in Granville, a coastal town in Normandy, France, in 1905, he was the second of five children born to Maurice Dior, a wealthy fertilizer manufacturer, and Isabelle Cardamone. His family enjoyed a comfortable life, shielded from the hardships that plagued many during that era. As such, his parents held aspirations for him that aligned with their social standing. They envisioned a career for him in diplomacy, believing it to be a prestigious and secure path.

This ambition was further fueled by the family’s move to Paris in 1910. The bustling capital offered a wealth of opportunities, and a diplomatic career seemed within reach. Dior enrolled at the École des Sciences Politiques (School of Political Sciences) in 1925, a prestigious institution known for training future diplomats and civil servants. However, his heart was never truly in it. He dutifully attended classes, fulfilling his parents' wishes, but his true passion lay elsewhere – in the world of art and design.

2. An Artist at Heart: The Seeds of Creativity:christian dior 10 facts

Despite the pressure to conform to his family's expectations, Dior harbored a deep-seated love for the arts. From a young age, he displayed a keen interest in drawing and sketching. He was captivated by the beauty of the world around him, finding inspiration in the elegant gardens of Granville, the vibrant colors of Parisian life, and the intricate details of historical costumes.

His artistic inclinations were not limited to drawing. He was also deeply fascinated by architecture and interior design, spending hours poring over books and magazines dedicated to these subjects. He even decorated his own room in a distinct style, showcasing his burgeoning talent for creating aesthetically pleasing spaces.

This innate artistic sensibility made the prospect of a career in diplomacy seem increasingly unappealing. While he respected his parents' wishes, he knew that he could not deny his true calling. He longed to express his creativity and immerse himself in the world of art and design.

3. Ten Cents a Sketch: Earning His Keep in the Art World:

Driven by his passion and a desire for independence, Dior began to pursue his artistic dreams in secret. While ostensibly studying at the École des Sciences Politiques, he spent his free time sketching and creating fashion designs. He developed a distinctive style, characterized by elegant lines, flowing fabrics, and a keen understanding of the female form.

To earn money and support his artistic endeavors, Dior took a bold step: he began selling his fashion sketches on the streets of Paris. He would stand outside his house, displaying his drawings and offering them for sale for a meager ten cents each. This was a far cry from the glamorous world of haute couture that he would eventually conquer, but it was a crucial step in his journey.

These humble beginnings provided him with valuable experience and exposure. He learned to interact with potential clients, understand their preferences, and adapt his designs to meet their needs. He also gained a deeper appreciation for the value of his work and the challenges of making a living as an artist.

4. 1928: Dropping Out and Embracing the Bohemian Life:

In 1928, Dior made a pivotal decision that would forever alter the course of his life. He finally succumbed to his artistic inclinations and dropped out of the École des Sciences Politiques, much to the disappointment of his parents. This was a risky move, as it meant abandoning the security and stability that they had envisioned for him.

However, Dior was determined to pursue his passion, regardless of the consequences. He used the money he received from his father to open a small art gallery with his friend, Jacques Bonjean. The gallery showcased the works of emerging artists, including Dior himself. It became a hub for the Parisian avant-garde, attracting a diverse clientele of artists, writers, and intellectuals.

This venture allowed Dior to immerse himself in the vibrant artistic community of Paris. He met influential figures, expanded his network, and honed his artistic skills. It was a period of intense creativity and self-discovery, laying the foundation for his future success in the world of fashion.

5. The Birthplace of Elegance: Where Christian Dior Was Founded

Christian Dior, the brand, was founded in Paris, France. This location is significant for several reasons. Paris has long been considered the fashion capital of the world, a city steeped in history, art, and culture. It was the ideal place for Dior to launch his revolutionary designs and establish his brand as a symbol of French elegance and sophistication.

The specific location was 30 Avenue Montaigne, a prestigious address in the heart of Paris's fashion district. This address became synonymous with the Dior brand and remains its flagship store to this day. The choice of location was strategic, placing Dior in close proximity to other leading fashion houses and attracting a discerning clientele.