Dior Glamour: 1952-1962

Just when you thought you have read everything about the legendary Christian Dior along comes one more fabulous book that exposes still one more facet of the man and his brand and what propelled this fashion icon to everlasting adulation.

Mark Shaw’s photographs serve as an unrivaled source of such great fashion moments during the career of a fashion master, Christian Dior. Even though the photos span a mere 10 years while Mr. Shaw covered Dior for Life magazine, the body of work is breathtaking on so many planes. Obviously the author’s dexterity and ability with a camera is apparent, but he manages to show off these clothes with maximum aplomb.

Dior Glamour must be appreciated regarding both its demonstration of photographic skill and its manner of fashion coverage.

The reader will be or should be astounded at the exquisite quality of the photos as well as the even more astounding quality of the clothes. Keep in mind that these are all haute couture and that these clothes are as wearable today as they were then. The exquisite physicality of this book is as grand as the subject matter, and that is stated without any exaggeration.

The reader should not expect to find contributions by Yves. St Laurent or Marc Bohan as Mr. Shaw has an absolute pin point focus on Monsieur Dior and while doing so, Mr. Shaw introduces us to the “cabine” of the house as well as some of the idiosyncrasies and superstitions of this consummate designer.

If you are fan of the house, a fan of photography, or a fan of the legacy of fashion, rush out and buy this for yourself and gift it to those who will cherish it. It was an honor and pleasure to have been able to review and possess such a fine volume of fashion history made possible by the amazingly talented Mark Shaw.