Christian Dior‘s rise to prominence will be examined in a new television drama. On Wednesday, Apple TV+ announced “The New Look:” a 10-episode series starring Ben Mendelsohn as the legendary couturier.
“The New Look” follows Dior’s early career in Nazi-occupied Paris, exploring how he, along with several other French designers, revived the fashion capital.
Ben Mendelsohn in “The New Look.”
“The interwoven saga follows the surprising stories of Dior’s contemporaries and rivals from Chanel to Pierre Balmain, Cristóbal Balenciaga and more, and [it] provides a stunning view into the atelier, designs and clothing created by Christian Dior through collaboration with the House of Dior,” the streamer’s synopsis reads.
After Dior left the army in 1942, he worked alongside Balmain as a primary designer for Lucien Lelong. Five years later, Dior would launch his namesake label and debut the “New Look,” solidifying his name in the annals of fashion history.
Characterized by its hourglass silhouette, the “New Look” accentuated the waistline and included a full, calf-length skirt. The feminine design was considered revolutionary following the proliferation of utilitarian fashion during World War II.
The show’s ensemble cast features Juliette Binoche as Coco Chanel, Maisie Williams as Catherine Dior and John Malkovich as Lucien Lelong.
Jack Antonoff produces the contemporary soundtrack of “The New Look.” Artists including Lana Del Rey, Bleachers, Florence Welch, Matty Healy (The 1975), Beabadoobee and Nick Cave will provide covers of early to mid-20th century tunes.
John Malkovich in “The New Look.”
The first three episodes of “The New Look” debut on Feb. 14, followed by the release of one episode each Wednesday through April 3.
“The New Look” is produced by Apple Studios and DB-AK Productions, and is written, executive produced and directed by Todd A. Kessler. Lorenzo di Bonaventura and Mark Baker also serve as executive producers.
