Annie Goetzinger's graphic novel, Girl in Dior, is a gorgeous look at a decade in the career of French fashion designer Christian Dior. Originally published in French, the novel was translated into English last year. It begins with Dior's celebrated debut fashion show on February 12, 1947 and follows fictional journalist Clara Nohunt on her first assignment for Jardin des Modes magazine. Through chance, Clara is welcomed into Dior's inner circle and the world of high fashion, and the lives of the two remain connected until Dior's sudden death in 1957.
Goetzinger lovingly captures the art of dressmaking. From Dior's initial sketches, to the team of pattern-makers, seamstresses and tailors, prototype fittings, decisions on materials and finally the unveiling of the evening dresses, there is a sense of reverence in her illustrations. In her acknowledgements, Goetzinger notes that Christian Dior Couture provided her with access to Dior's private townhouse and archive materials to aid in the authenticity of the story. It shows.
A striking aspect of Girl in Dior is the juxtaposition of the opulence of high fashion to the post-Second World War era. A photo shoot staged in a working class neighbourhood in New York features models in luxurious overcoats. It quickly becomes the setting of a scuffle between the models and some local apple vendors. In a similar theme, the illustrations are generally muted as the author saves her use of vibrant colour for the garments.
Those with an interest in the fashion of the 1940's and 1950's will appreciate the Girl in Dior for its detailed representation of that time period. This is a good choice for first time readers of graphic novels.
Girl in Dior is available in the Adult Graphic Novel collection of the Prince George Public Library.
- Reviewed by Amy Dhanjal, the communications coordinator at the Prince George Public Library.
