'I am assisted by the photographs or drawings published in the papers which often present me with an entirely new light on my creations,' said Christian Dior, though I'm not quite sure what he'd have made of this blog post. But here goes....
Always up for a new experience, this week, That's Not My Age tries couture on for size. Currently on seaside location, chez old college friend, S, an avid hoarder of vintage porcelain, collector of general bric-a-brac, stunning host and fabulous tour guide. It's like the Antiques Roadshow with alcohol. So far we've eaten our way around the county, visited Old Harry Rocks and tasted some Dorset Knob (a local bread-based delicacy). I've also tried out all the beauty products in the bathroom, but that's between you and me.
So, last night after a glass of Rioja, S casually uncovered an old 1955 Christian Dior evening dress. Dior in Dorset. Who knew? One of my favourite fashion exhibitons ever, was The Golden Age of Couture at the V&A. Splendid. It obviously had a greater affect on my companion than I realised - she's gone couture crazy. And, even though this floor-length gown is priceless, delicate and custom-made for someone else, I had to try it on:
Easier said than done. The big full skirt with layers of net petticoats and intricate hook & eye detail slipped on quite easily but the bodice with its tiny waist and narrow sleeves was a different proposition.
Fortunately, S didn't mind playing Upstairs, Downstairs, and eventually, with the assistance of a loyal maid, That's Not My Age was adorned in couture. Blimey, it can't have been easy in the olden days - I could barely move and this without a corset! I'd forgotten how nostalgic some of Dior's designs were. Totally turn of the twentieth century. People, this is NOT casual glamour.
Dior also said, ' Couture is the marriage of design and material. There are many instances of perfect harmony - and there are a few of disaster.'
What do you think of my New Look? Perfect harmony or disaster?
Dior photo: V&A Museum