J’adore Dior, especially in Chicago. This spring, the Chicago History Museum is running “Dior: The New Look,” an exhibit on Christian Dior, one of the most influential designers of the 20th century.

The exhibit traces the history of the great fashion icon, starting in 1947 with his groundbreaking first show. This show was revolutionary to the fashion world with Dior’s introduction of “The New Look.”

This “new look” accentuated the female figure, with an emphasis on the hips and waist, moving away from the more modest and boxy style of pre-WWII fashion. Dior brought back opulence to female fashion and set the bar for what would be 1950s fashion and beyond, focusing on tiny waists and bustier-enhanced busts.

The exhibit also has strong ties to the Chicago area, and many of the pieces are donated by Chicagoans. Included in the collection is a stunning cocktail dress from Maria Tallchief, a famous ballerina who once served as director of the Lyric Opera of Chicago ballet.

The exhibit ranges from beautifully tailored suits to a cream colored evening gown dripping with crystals, and provides a great opportunity for fashion lovers to gain some appreciation for one of the greatest fashion minds of the last century.

Dior: The New Look is running at the Chicago History Museum, 1601 N. Clark St., through May 28, 2007. Museum hours are Monday through Wednesday 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Thursday 9:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Friday and Saturday 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Sunday noon to 5:00 p.m.