Christian Dior: History and Modernity, 1947 - 1957

I was hesitant to purchase this book unseen, as I own Dr. Palmer's other Dior publication, but am so happy that I took the risk. It is a publication of great beauty with lovely photography, well researched and insightful text, and wonderful small patterns and diagrams that really bring the designs and their genius to life.

This book is very thoroughly researched. It has many great illustrations and photographs, and insight into Dior's designs. I highly recommend this to anyone interested in clothing construction and fashion history. If you are a fan of Betty Kirke's book on Vionnet then you will appreciate Alexandra Palmer's detailed book on Dior. It is one of my favorite design books in my library.

This book beautifully illustrates iconic Dior design elements in stunning photos with glorious detail. Inspiring to look at, insightful and informative if you are a maker yourself.

Its amazing to be able to see the pattern of the dress. And how it was constructed .

I’d give it five stars but the pictures are so dark it’s difficult to make out what the details on the clothes. Other than that, the diagrams, pattern layouts, and fabric information are neat. The book could have included more photos of some of the garments but I guess they don’t have to show all their secrets.

The book cover was damaged, but I decided to keep this book because it is extremely rare.

I love to sew and I enjoy fashion history, especially the 1940's and 1950's. Much more than a coffee table book, it has fabulous descriptions and detailed photographs of engineering and construction details. It is riveting, especially for any person who poured over the Vogue pattern book in the 50's and 60's. It will definitely fire up your sewing enthusiasm. The depth of research is admirable.