... And All That Jazz ... Dior Summer 2008

It is great to know that actually, there is still a sense of sanity in John Galliano's summer 2008 ready-to-wear collection for Christian Dior.

Compared to the upcoming fall/winter collection of ready-to-wear and accessories, which are pure reflections to the late 60's with outrageous zesty colors and predominant volumes paired with models sporting big hairs with gaudy eye makeup and stuff, a haunting reminder to the cult movie "Valley of the Dolls", the summer ones fared better among local fashion devotees.

Blending together the iconic style influences of Hollywood silver screen siren Marlene Dietrich, celebrated silent comedian Charlie Chaplin, and the raunchy Jazz Age that flourished throughout the 20th century while running away from "art-inspired" trend that dominates the catwalk this season.

The result is a splendid collection of sure-to-be-bestsellers with classic prints and nice tailoring, altogether thrown in while missing in action are beaded flapper dresses, the Jazz Age fashion staple.

Start your day at the office with Charlie Chaplin-styled pinstripe black crepe satin double-breasted blazer with matching tailored straight pants with white shirt, perfect for attending important meetings.

If your are not in the mood for pantsuits then dress to impress in draped floral crepe jacquard satin back jacket with embroidered jacquard silk Georgette godet skirt. Other impressive choice also includes white embroidered sand crepe jacket embellished with lily flower and matched with a matching chiffon godet skirt.

Enjoy the lazy summer days with its immaculate selection of dresses. Silk satin dress in classic zebra print with gathered front and back makes the perfect dress to relax and hang out with friends, as well as with sand crepe dress in black, also with gathered back and front.

For a touch of drama, opt to wear embroidered crepe Georgette top with wide neckline in "summer leaves" print and adorned with a white lily flower, paired with a white back straight skirt in crepe satin or maybe a dress sporting the similar style.

Another classic piece resembling one of late Monsieur Dior's early work is crepre Georgette dress in panther print with beaded fringes. Featuring a plummeting neckline, the dress drapes perfectly to the body and suitable for any types of occasion.

The black striped worsted wool double-breasted waistcoat with open back and grain de poudre straight pants, which probably was inspired by Dietrich reminds me of how Bahamian singer Rihanna dressed in her music video "Umbrella", complete with a trilby hat.

For those who wanted to evoke the spirit of style goddesses from the 40's to the 60's and be the belle of the party, do invest in these spectacular and breathtaking pieces from Dior - richly embroidered white crepe Georgette dress with pagoda shoulders and long sleeves, silk satin crepe sirene dress with gathered bodice, red crepe satin evening bustier back dress with fold details on the bust and gathers on side.

Last but not least is a strappy red crepe Georgette top with lily embellishment with matching front-slitted sirene skirt.

For accessories, look for the must have Jazz Club bag in pony-finished leather with zebra or leopard print, Jazz Club wallet in aged leather with turnlock, Jazz Club pumps with 12cm heels in beige, black, and Zebra print, or simply go for the highly-coveted python version with python jewelry and gold-toned hardware.

Christian Dior's spring/summer 2008 ready-to-wear and accessories collection is available now at all Christian Dior boutiques and selected retailers worldwide.

*Photos by First Take

Christian Dior - Lot UG2, Adorn Floor, Starhill Gallery, Jalan Bukit Bintang, 55100 Kuala Lumpur; Lot H02, Passenger Level, Kuala Lumpur International Airport, Sepang; Ground Floor, Isetan KLCC, Suria KLCC, Jalan Ampang, 50088 Kuala Lumpur.