Got to the Dior Illustrated – René Gruau & The Line of Beauty show last night.
With my fashion design background, how could I not like these iconic pieces that were the face of Dior advertising from the mid 50’s right into the 1980’s. The show is curated in order of campaigns / fragrances and included some of Gruau’s most iconic work.
His loose, free lines and use of negative space have stuck in my mind since way back when we practiced illustration during my degree (and even beyond that). The ability to gesture the curves of a leg, from hip to toe in one fluid stroke is a talent in itself try it, I promise you – you’ll struggle. Bold lines to visualise such delicate forms, so effectively.
Admittedly a few of the pieces do look a little dated now but surely that is the nature of fashion as an art? On a whole, it is a collection of timeless classics. Simplicity, femininity and sophistication, united by these two close friends through illustration and fashion.
“To be inspired by Dior is to be inspired by René Gruau”
John Galliano