“The New Look” series paints a vivid picture of the intertwined lives and careers of fashion icons Coco Chanel, Christian Dior, and Lucien Lelong during the tumultuous years of World War II. The series, which features renowned actors John Malkovich, Ben Mendelsohn, Maisie Williams, and Juliette Binoche, casts a spotlight on the trials and triumphs of these legendary designers, revealing a shadowy past that many may find unexpected.
Table of Contents
- The Trio’s Rise Amidst Turmoil
- Dior and Chanel: A Complicated History
- Lucien Lelong: The Saviour of French Couture
- The Forgotten History
- John Malkovich’s Insights
- The Impact of World War II
- The Series’ Reflection on Modern Times
- The New Look on Apple TV+
- Related Shows
- Conclusion
- Comments
- Additional Resources
1. The Trio’s Rise Amidst Turmoil
The story of “The New Look” revolves around the survival and subsequent rise to prominence of Chanel, Dior, and Lelong during the Nazi invasion in the late 1940s. The series delves into the harsh realities behind the glamourous facade of their fame, providing viewers with a fresh perspective on their oft-glamourized lives.
Watch The New Look on Apple TV+
2. Dior and Chanel: A Complicated History
Coco Chanel’s history with the Nazis is depicted in a less than flattering light, revealing her role as a Nazi informant and her controversial affair with a German officer. Equally turbulent was the journey of Catherine Dior, Christian Dior’s sister, who was captured by the Nazis for her resistance efforts to protect Jewish people.
“History has remembered mainly the glamorous parts of the fashion legends, ignoring that they both rose to fame while the Nazis were in power.” – John Malkovich
3. Lucien Lelong: The Savior of French Couture
Lucien Lelong’s critical role in preserving French couture during World War II is a testament to his tenacity and resilience. He successfully negotiated with the Germans, ensuring that French couture remained operative within France’s borders, thus preventing its relocation to Berlin.
4. The Forgotten History
Malkovich, who portrays Lelong in the series, emphasizes the forgotten aspects of this historical period. He asserts that the accommodations people made during World War II were not dissimilar to the ones we would resort to in dire circumstances today. He cites the recent Covid-19 pandemic as an example of how people adapt to their surroundings in times of crisis.
5. John Malkovich’s Insights
In an exclusive interview with SheKnows, Malkovich sheds light on how the designers navigated the uncertainties of the Nazi occupation. He suggests that Lelong’s actions, which included designing dresses for Nazi wives and officials, were necessary for the survival and continuity of the French fashion industry.
6. The Impact of World War II
World War II undeniably shaped the course of these designers’ careers, forcing them to make tough choices that were controversial, to say the least. However, it is crucial to remember that the future was uncertain during those dark times, and the decisions made were largely influenced by the need to survive.
7. The Series’ Reflection on Modern Times
“The New Look” not only provides a historical account of the fashion industry during World War II, but it also offers a poignant reflection on contemporary society. It serves as a stark reminder that history tends to repeat itself if its lessons are not heeded.
8. The New Look on Apple TV+
“The New Look” is currently streaming on Apple TV+, providing viewers with a chance to explore the hidden past of these fashion legends. The series promises to be an enlightening and thought-provoking journey through a pivotal era in fashion history.
9. Related Shows
For more captivating stories, check out the best episodes of “Outlander” that you need to watch.
