Dior's signature pattern is undoubtedly recognizable from a mile away. In fact, we'd bet that you’ve already stumbled upon this iconic motif at least once in your life—may it be on social media or even on the crook of your arm. Apart from being so popular, we bet you are unaware of it’s beginnings and how the signature pattern came to be a staple in every celebrity and fashionista’s wardrobes. Here's everything you need to know about this storied print.
Who created the Dior Oblique print?
The pattern, which is considered to be Dior’s monogram, was created in 1967 by French fashion designer Marc Bohan. He was the creative director of Dior from 1961 to 1989.
Why is it called Oblique?
The word “oblique” means “neither perpendicular nor parallel” according to the Merriam Webster dictionary. But for Dior, the Oblique pattern takes its name from the Fall collection created by Christian Dior in the 1950s. The French house’s signature pattern is slanted repetitions of the “Dior” insignia, a simple yet established motif in the fashion industry.
The Beginning of the Oblique Pattern
Surprisingly, it was not until 1969 that the motif was incorporated into one of the bags from Dior’s Haute Couture collection at the time. The Oblique was also used to decorate Dior’s luggage collection in 1971 and adorn the floor and steps of the Dior Monsieur boutique in 1974!
Fast forward to the early 2000s and under the creative direction of John Galliano, the Oblique was transformed into full-pattern streetwear looks that definitely left a mark on the runway. Thanks to him, the fashion world saw the Oblique Saddle bag that is loved and coveted by many until now. We must also give credit to fashion photographer Nick Knight who created the campaign for Dior’s 2004 collection that featured supermodel Gisele Bundchen in a full pattern look. Gisele was dressed in a bikini and jacket, holding two bags, leaning against a snowboard—all in a green and yellow detailed Oblique pattern. This photo practically cemented the print's cool status, and the rest, as they say, was history.
The Revival of the Oblique Pattern
In 2018, Maria Grazia Chiuri, the current creative director of Dior since 2016, has been revisiting the fashion house’s archives and highlighted the nostalgic yet timeless pieces of Dior but with a contemporary twist. In her early dabbles in the House of Dior, the Oblique pattern was only seen on the Ready-to-Wear collection and the Saddle bag. Now, the motif can be spotted on most (if not all) of Dior’s items from handbags to bucket hats!
With Maria Grazia Chiuri at the helm, Dior still maintains the same craftsmanship that the fashion house promises considering the several changes it has gone through throughout the years. Despite its 54 years of existence and reimaginations, Dior’s Oblique pattern has been and always will be a representation of the fashion house’s heritage.
Variations
Today, Dior has about eight variations of the Oblique pattern that differs primarily in hues. It is available in Navy, Burgundy, Gray, Brown, Dark Tan, Denim Blue, Black, and Green.
Which celebrities have been wearing the Oblique pattern?
1. Anne Curtis-Smith Heussaff
The Oblique print proves to be a pretty accent pattern to add to any all-black 'fit.
2. Jisoo of BLACKPINK
Jisoo demos just how versatile the house's Oblique-printed scarf is!
3. Heart Evangelista
If you're looking for a classic office bag to invest in, reach for Dior's 30 Montaigne style wrapped in the brand's signature print.
4. Bae Suzy
Winterwear doesn't have to be drab. Just check out Suzy's choice of cold weather look!
5. Kylie Jenner
See, even Kylie Jenner agrees!
6. Jinkee Pacquiao
Don't know what to wear when traveling? Stow all your essentials in your Book Tote and add a bucket hat just like Jinkee!
7. Rei Germar
Bucket hats printed with the Oblique print will always be in style.
8. Dra. Aivee Teo and Bea Alonzo
Make your life easier and carry your belongings in a roomy Book tote.
9. Sarah Lahbati
Swimsuits look extra sexy and stylish when it's monogrammed!
10. Kelsey Merritt
Monochrome looks never looked this good.
Dior pieces featuring the Oblique print that are worth investing in
1. Book Tote
2. Saddle Bag
3. Walk N Dior Sneakers
4. J'Adior Bracelet Set
5 Chez Moi Slides
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