The Apple TV+ series “The New Look” has wrapped up its final episode, leaving viewers with a fresh perspective on the iconic fashion houses of Christian Dior and Coco Chanel. The show delves into the personal lives and struggles of these legendary designers, shedding light on their human complexities and the choices they had to make to survive in the post-World War II fashion world.
Fashion critic Vanessa Friedman and Styles editor Stella Bugbee engage in a lively debate about the potential impact of the series on the perception of Dior and Chanel. While the show may contain some factual inaccuracies, it succeeds in humanizing these megabrands and offering a new lens through which to view their founders.
The performances of Ben Mendelsohn and Juliette Binoche as Dior and Chanel, respectively, are praised for their compelling portrayal of these fashion icons. The series also touches on the relationships between other notable designers of the time, such as Pierre Balmain, Cristóbal Balenciaga, and Pierre Cardin, adding depth to the narrative.
Despite the lack of focus on actual fashion in the series, the exploration of the personal lives and struggles of these designers raises thought-provoking questions about the relationship between the artist and their art. The creators of the show envision a potential continuation of the series, exploring the postwar lives of Dior and Chanel, as well as the rise of Yves Saint Laurent.
Overall, “The New Look” offers a fresh perspective on the fashion world of the 20th century and leaves viewers eager for more insights into the lives of these iconic designers.
