Before designer brands became synonymous with luxury, its founders and couturiers started from scratch. Some even began the makings of a fashion empire backdropped by war–the case is true for great names like Christian Dior and Coco Chanel.
The story of these formidable fashion icons will soon be depicted in the new series The New Look, which delves into the creation of their houses and the new epoch of fashion. Tying the stories of Dior, Chanel, and even Pierre Balmain and Cristóbal Balenciaga, the Todd A. Kessler-helmed series may well be The Crown for devout style enthusiasts. To know more about it before it hits the screens, read on below.
What Is “The New Look” About?
Based on true events and filmed in Paris, The New Look delves into the lives of iconic fashion designers Christian Dior, Coco Chanel, and their peers during the tumultuous backdrop of World War II.
Against the Nazi occupation of Paris, the narrative unfolds as Dior emerges as a trailblazer, leading the resurgence of the city through revolutionary fashion. The story not only chronicles Dior’s ascent but also explores the challenges faced by contemporaries like Coco Chanel, Pierre Balmain, and Cristóbal Balenciaga. The interwoven stories will give a glimpse into the world of the atelier, alongside the collaborations that resulted in Christian Dior's groundbreaking designs and the lasting impact on modern fashion.
What Does “The New Look” Mean?
The series’ title The New Look is an homage to Christian Dior’s debut Spring/Summer collection in 1947, which went down in history coined as the “New Look.” Originally named “Coralle” and “Huit,” the significant 90-piece collection was dubbed as the “New Look” by Harper’s Bazaar then-editor-in-chief Carmel Snow, who considered it a “revolution” especially in a time wrought by war.
Dior’s debut collection is credited as one that revived the fashion industry in France, with pieces like the Bar jacket and the Chérie dress highlighting ultra-femininity and opulence after years of restrictions with military and civilian uniforms.
Who Are the Cast Members of “The New Look”?
Ben Mendelsohn as Christian Dior
Emmy-winning Australian actor Ben Mendelsohn takes on the role of Christian Dior in the series. He previously starred in Netflix’s Bloodline, and in films like Captain Marvel, The Dark Knight Rises, Ready Player One, and Rogue One.
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Juliette Binoche as Coco Chanel
Among Christian Dior’s contemporaries is Coco Chanel, the eponymous founder of the Chanel brand. The fashion designer is portrayed by Juliette Binoche, the Academy Award-winning French actress behind films like Chocolat and The English Patient.
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Maisie Williams as Catherine Dior
Maisie Williams of Game of Thrones fame plays Catherine Dior, the sister of Christian Dior who was a revered French resistance fighter in World War II. Historians have noted the close relationship between the siblings, as she also played a hand in preserving her brother’s legacy after his death.
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John Malkovich as Lucien Lelong
John Malkovich, known for his award-winning roles in Being John Malkovich and Dangerous Liaisons, portrays Lucien Lelong, a prominent French couturier in the 1920s to the 1940s. In 1941, Christian Dior joined the couturier’s house, where he worked among the likes of Pierre Balmain.
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Where Can You Watch “The New Look”?
The New Look will stream exclusively on Apple TV+ starting February 14 with its first three episodes. They will be followed with one episode every Wednesday until April 3.
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