Overview
“The New Look” on Apple TV+ delves into the fashion realm amidst and post the Nazi occupation of Paris, focusing on the legendary rivalry between Christian Dior and Coco Chanel. The series, created by Todd A Kessler, portrays their survival strategies during the tumultuous times of World War II.
In the initial episodes of the show, viewers witness Chanel’s alliances with high-ranking Nazis for mutual benefits, contrasting with Dior’s journey from designing for Nazi officers’ wives to establishing his eponymous brand post-war.
The narrative not only features Chanel and Dior but also integrates various historical figures, shedding light on the fashion industry’s leaders navigating the wartime atrocities.
The Cast
- Juliette Binoche as Coco Chanel: Known for revolutionizing haute couture and introducing Chanel No. 5, Chanel’s wartime collaboration with the Nazis is a focal point in the series.
- Ben Mendelsohn as Christian Dior: Dior’s transition from designing under Lucien Lelong during the war to unveiling the iconic “New Look” collection in 1947 is a pivotal storyline.
- Maisie Williams as Catherine Dior: Catherine’s bravery as a French Resistance fighter and her resilience post-war, including her rumored association with the perfume “Miss Dior,” are highlighted.
- John Malkovich as Lucien Lelong: Lelong’s strategic role during the German occupation in Paris and his mentorship of budding designers like Dior are portrayed.
- Claes Bang as Hans Von Dincklage: The enigmatic relationship between Von Dincklage and Chanel, transcending the war era, adds intrigue to the storyline.
- Glenn Close as Carmel Snow: Snow’s influence as a tastemaker and her coined phrase “The New Look” encapsulate the evolving fashion landscape.
- Emily Mortimer as Elsa Lombardi: Lombardi’s involvement in wartime missions and her consequential actions against Chanel as a Nazi informer bring forth complex narratives.
The series unfolds the intertwined lives of these characters against the backdrop of historical events, offering a compelling portrayal of resilience, rivalry, and reinvention in the fashion industry.