August 1956. Dior has named this line, part of his autumn-winter collection, “Magnet”. Not only is the grey, rustic-Garrigue wool dress a Dior creation, so too are the the hat, the gloves, the undergarments and the jewellery. In 21st century terms, this is a classic case of brand extension. The shoes are a collaboration with Delman, whose founder, Herman Delman, was a pioneer in using celebrities to promote a luxury brand. Marilyn Monroe is wearing Delmans in the iconic scene in The Seven Year Itch when a blast of air from the subway grating on which she is standing blows up her skirt. Audrey Hepburn and Marlene Dietrich are also Delman customers. A hook-up with Dior makes sense for both brands. The model is Renée Breton and a caption on the back of the photo reads:
Christian Dior – Automne–Hiver – Ligne “Aimant”
AUTEUIL : robe en lainage rustique gris de Garrigue. Les chapeaux sont des créations de notre rayon de mode. Bijoux Christian Dior. Gants Christian Dior. Gaines and Gorges Christian Dior. Bas Christian Dior. Chaussures Christian Dior.