Take a Look at the Iconic 1955 Christian Dior Fashion Shows in Scotland
Written by Samantha Franco and Clare Fitzgerald.
The world of fashion has always been synonymous with glitz and glamor, and few names embody this spirit more than Christian Dior. In 1955, the designer brought his eponymous brand’s allure to Scotland, putting on two spectacular fashion shows, both of which aimed to raise funds for Friends of France, an organization dedicated to organizing exchange trips for Scottish and French schoolchildren.
Below are some snaps from the glamorous events that are sure to make you wish you could travel back in time and attend them in person!
1955 Christian Dior fashion show
Christian Dior’s collection made a grand entrance even before it debuted on the catwalk, arriving in Scotland via private aircraft. The precious cargo included 172 dresses and eight models, which were insured for an astounding £60,000 – a testament to their prestige. Their final destinations? The Gleneagles hotel in Perthshire and the Central Hotel in Glasgow.
In settings befitting the grandeur of the collection, the models graced the specially-constructed catwalks in the ballrooms, bringing Dior’s vision to life. The designer himself documented one of the evenings in his autobiography, offering a vivid recollection of the event.
“After the show, there was an unexpected contrast which delighted my French eyes: The parade of girls in their delicate evening dresses was succeeded by Scottish reels danced by magnificent Scottish gentlemen in their kilts,” he wrote. “It looked wonderful, but beneath the frenzied stampings of the dancers, the floor shook and bounced, and we were all nervous that it would collapse.”
Lord Provost reassured the anxious guests by explaining that the wooden floor was designed to shake, adding an extra element of animation to the reels. This unique detail added to the evening’s charm and showcased the blend of French elegance and Scottish tradition.
The fashion shows weren’t just about style and spectacle; they had a noble purpose. They succeeded in raising £4,000 for Friends of France. Dior, ever the visionary, brought not just fashion to Scotland, but also the spirit of philanthropy.
Now, let’s get into the photos!
Getting all glammed up
Here we have two models, one of them frequent Dior collaborator Lucie “Lucky” Daophars, applying their makeup during their flight to Scotland. They were among the many who participated in the fashion shows.
Behind-the-scenes sneak peek
This is a special behind-the-scenes sneak peak of Christian Dior’s famed 1955 fashion collection. We can’t get over the elegance and glamor – it must be the long gloves.
A classic day dress
You can’t tell because the above image is black and white, but the model pictured is wearing a day dress in a classic periwinkle blue hue. The design features a pleated skirt and a flattened bodice, a style that was all the rage in the 1950s.
A gorgeous dress!
Can we just say that the dress this model has on is absolutely stunning! It’s no wonder the photographer reflected in the mirror was eager to take her picture.
Some attendees couldn’t secure seats
While many were able to snag seats for the 1955 Christian Dior fashion shows, not everyone was. If you happened to show up late, you were out of luck and had to watch the models through closed doors – not the best view, if you ask us.
Backstage chaos
We know fashion shows are chaotic backstage, but we’ve never seen just how busy everyone is. The above image shows models and staff trying to navigate the small working area backstage, which is filled with dresses and other miscellaneous items.
A charity ball followed the 1955 Christian Dior fashion shows
What many might not realize is that both of Christian Dior’s 1955 fashion shows were put on as part of charity balls. This meant attendees could celebrate the events’ success together in style!
Dancing the night away
Is it really a charity ball if attendees don’t get the chance to dance the night away? From the looks of the above image, everyone had an amazing time. We bet their feet hurt in the morning!
A crowded scene
Here’s another image showing just how jampacked the 1955 Christian Dior fashion shows were. We’re feeling claustrophobic just looking at that crowd of people on the staircase… Give each other space, people!
A stunning wedding dress
Above you can see just one of the many amazing outfits showcased on the catwalk at the 1955 Christian Dior fashion shows. We don’t know what we love more, the dress itself or the veil. Together, they’re perfection!
Christian Dior was very hands on
Christian Dior was very involved in his business, including the fashion shows, so it’s no surprise to see him with one of the models, ensuring her outfit looks as good as he designed it to be.
Give us a twirl!
This model certainly appeared to love the dress she was wearing. Look at the twirl she gave the audience at the end of the catwalk! By the looks of it, the scene took their breath away (as it should have).
Christian Dior was happy with the outcome
Does this photo of Christian Dior remind anyone else of a proud father watching his children succeed at something they’ve worked so hard at? Just look at that smile on his face!
