Introduction
“The New Look” delves into the fashion realm amidst and post the Nazi presence in Paris. Apple TV+ showcases the intense rivalry between renowned fashion icons Christian Dior and Coco Chanel. The stellar cast features John Malkovich, Glenn Close, and the talented Maisie Williams from “Game of Thrones.”
Series Overview
“The New Look,” a creation by Todd A Kessler, renowned for the legal drama [
Coco Chanel: Juliette Binoche
Juliette Binoche embodies the iconic Coco Chanel, synonymous with haute couture and the Chanel brand, credited with revolutionizing women’s fashion and introducing the enduringly popular Chanel No. 5 perfume. The series delves into Chanel’s complex relationship with the Nazis, particularly her involvement with the Abwehr.
Christian Dior: Ben Mendelsohn
Ben Mendelsohn portrays Christian Dior, Chanel’s rival, whose journey from a novice designer under Lucien Lelong during the Nazi era to establishing his eponymous brand in 1946 is depicted. Dior’s groundbreaking collection in 1947, known as [], reshaped women’s fashion with its ultra-feminine aesthetic.
Catherine Dior: Maisie Williams
Maisie Williams embodies Catherine Dior, the younger sister of Christian Dior, a French Resistance fighter who faced imprisonment and torture by the Gestapo for her courageous involvement in intelligence activities during the war. Her resilience and contributions were commendable, earning her prestigious accolades post-war.
Lucien Lelong: John Malkovich
John Malkovich portrays Lucien Lelong, a prominent French couturier during World War II, credited for his strategic decisions that sustained the fashion industry during the German occupation of Paris. Lelong’s mentoring of budding designers like Dior, Givenchy, and Balmain shaped the future of haute couture.
Hans Von Dincklage: Claes Bang
Claes Bang embodies Hans Von Dincklage, the enigmatic Nazi diplomat and Chanel’s lover, whose relationship with the fashion icon transcended the war, culminating in their relocation to Switzerland post-war.
Carmel Snow: Glenn Close
Glenn Close portrays Carmel Snow, the influential editor of Harper’s Bazaar, known for coining “The New Look” catchphrase post Dior’s revolutionary collection debut in 1947. Snow’s pivotal role in shaping fashion narratives is highlighted in the series.
Elsa Lombardi: Emily Mortimer
Emily Mortimer portrays Elsa Lombardi, inspired by Vera Bate Lombardi, a confidant of Chanel embroiled in espionage activities during the war. Lombardi’s involvement in “Operation Modellhut” and subsequent revelations to the British Embassy added intrigue to the wartime narrative.
Conclusion
“The New Look” offers a captivating portrayal of the intertwined lives of fashion luminaries amidst the tumultuous backdrop of World War II. The series unfolds the untold stories of resilience, rivalry, and redemption, captivating audiences with each episode.
The first three episodes of “The New Look” are now available on Apple TV+, with subsequent episodes releasing weekly until April 3rd.