Christian Dior's first Spring/Summer collection, shown in February of 1947 in chilly, post-war Paris, was a sensation. His small-waisted, full skirted 'New Look' silhouette was a symbol of luxurious provocation that made headlines around the world. This initial success was followed by revolutionary project developments never seen before in the rarified world of Paris couture, the opening of a Fur department, the launching of one of the first-ever 'designer' perfumes, and from 1948 onward, the signing of numerous licensing agreements across the globe.
