The Lady Dior Handbag: Elegance, Craftsmanship and Collectable Appeal

The story of the Lady Dior begins in September 1995, when Princess Diana was gifted Dior’s new “Chouchou” bag by France’s First Lady, Bernadette Chirac, during the Cézanne art exhibition at the Grand Palais in Paris. So taken was Diana with the design that she promptly requested one in every available colour. It quickly became a fixture on her arm in public appearances and photographs, and soon after, the bag was renamed “Lady Dior” in her honour.

Within its first two years of release, Dior sold over 200,000 Lady Dior bags worldwide, cementing its place as one of the most recognisable icons in the history of luxury fashion.

Design Inspired by Dior’s Early Vision

Christian Dior once remarked, “Real luxury requires the best materials and the best craftsmanship,” a belief that is evident in every Lady Dior bag. Originally designed by Gianfranco Ferré in 1994, the Lady Dior is defined by its elegant structure, quilted texture and signature Cannage stitching — a pattern said to have been inspired by the Napoleon III chairs used at Dior’s debut show in 1947.

Each bag is made from over 140 pieces of hand-cut lambskin, stretched and stitched by a team of seven artisans, taking approximately eight hours to complete. The result is a timeless piece that embodies refinement and technical mastery. 

Christian Dior Fuchsia Medium Lady Dior Bag.

A Style Modernised Through the Decades

From royalty to red carpets, the Lady Dior has remained in style across generations. Its classic shape and graceful proportions have been reimagined through countless seasonal editions, collaborations and materials. Worn by icons such as Carla Bruni, Diane Kruger, Monica Bellucci, Marion Cotillard and Jennifer Lawrence, the bag has continuously evolved while remaining true to its roots in elegance.

Christian Dior Cream Python Medium Lady Dior Bag

Interested in the value of your Lady Dior or other designer handbags?

Chiswicks Designer Handbags & Fashion department are currently accepting consignments for future sales. Contact our team for a complimentary valuation or to discuss individual items or entire collections:
Email: fashion@chiswickauctions.co.uk

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