Dior Illustrated

Renowned illustrator René Gruau is responsible for the some of the most iconic fashion images of the 40s and 50s. Throughout his illustrious career, he worked with prestigious design houses including Balmain, Balenciaga, Lanvin and Givenchy, his most memorable partnership being with Christian Dior. The Dior Illustrated exhibition which currently opens at at Somerset House (UK) showcases groundbreaking artworks by Gruau including original illustrations for Christian Dior Parfums, vintage perfume bottles, sketches and magazines; as well as a selection of Dior Haute Couture dresses personally chosen by John Galliano among which a special dress designed by Galliano himself, in homage to Gruau.

René Gruau’s bold lines and fluid style were perfectly in tune with the spirit of Dior, capturing the energy, elegance and audacity of the brand. His illustrations also tell of a special understanding Gruau had of Christian Dior himself, born of a close friendship between the two men. Gruau influenced the graphic style of a whole generation of fashion illustrators and the exhibition features specially commissioned pieces from five UK based illustrators, whose works draws inspiration from the rich collaboration between Gruau and the House of Dior. 

*from http://www.somersethouse.org.uk 

I drooled over these illustrations – aren’t they the loveliest things? Go now when you have the chance, and please share your pictures/experience.

Exhibition opens until 9 Jan 2011
Daily 10.00-18.00, Thurs 21.00
Embankment Galleries
£6, conc £5, under 12s free

Some more of Gruau's works:

and the exhibition:

H.N.