This gorgeous red gown (I love red!!!) is one of several Dior gowns in the Royal Ontario Museum collection. Dr. Alexandra Palmer, Senior Curator of the ROM's Textiles and Costumes, is currently writing a book on Dior which will be published under the V&A label in October 2009.
Recently, I had the privilege of listening to Dr. Palmer talk about her research for the book which covers the post-war period until his death 1947-1957. She alluded to the possibility of a Dior exhibition at the Royal Ontario Museum in the future. (Wouldn't that be divine?) With 35 pieces in the ROM collection storage facilities, they probably could put together a fine show with what they already have. Nevertheless Dr. Palmer said they were happy to accept donations of Dior, if anyone has any at the back of their closet.
I am currently reading three books on Dior including:
"The Little Dictionary of Fashion" by Christian Dior (Abrams 1954)
"Dior on Dior" by Christian Dior (1957)
"Christian Dior" by Farid Chenoune and Laziz Hamani (Assouline 2007)
I cannot get enough Dior and look forward to Dr. Palmer's book which is based on "new research" and is "absorbing and beautifully illustrated".