The Apple TV+ drama series, 'The New Look,' delves into an intriguing premise within the well-trodden territory of World War II. Created by Todd A. Kessler, known for his work on 'Bloodline,' the show explores the impact of the war on the Paris-based fashion industry, highlighting the lives of two distinguished fashion icons: Christian Dior, portrayed by Ben Mendelsohn, and Coco Chanel, portrayed by Juliette Binoche. These legendary fashion designers were not only pioneers in their craft but also founders of iconic fashion houses that continue to thrive even today.
'The New Look,' which begins with Paris under Nazi occupation, presents Dior and Chanel as both peers and foils. Dior is depicted as a sensitive dreamer, while Chanel is portrayed as a shrewd and self-made entrepreneur who famously collaborated with the Nazis. The title of the series, 'The New Look,' alludes to Dior's groundbreaking debut collection in 1947, which introduced a shift from wartime austerity to mid-century elegance, characterized by cinched waists and full skirts. The show sets out to present 'the story of how creation helped return spirit and life to the world.'
