The update: Dior Bar jacket

On the morning of February 12, 1947, Christian Dior created history. It was just two years after World War II, and being frugal with a focus on high utility was top priority – until Dior lifted the mood with a collection that defied economic and utilitarian constraints. The first model was kitted out in a jacket with sloping shoulders, a nipped-in waist and voluminous hips worn with an ankle-grazing, fully pleated skirt.

Fast-forward to 1996, John Galliano took over the creative reins at the French design house and gave the Bar jacket several avatars, from film-noir heroine to whip-wielding equestrienne, and stretched the taut canvas into all kinds of theatrical until 2011, when his reign at Dior ended.

In 2012, Belgian designer Raf Simons stepped into the role of Creative Director – his debut Dior show’s first look was an architectural tuxedo version of the Bar jacket.  Simons’ colour-heavy, minimalist approach to fashion gave the almost seven-decade-old design a contemporary turn. From a dissected, skin-revealing version to one that looks like the classic prototype in the front but is full of surprises at the back (think slashes of acid-hued florals) – the Bar jacket continues to be a keeper. 

Here’s how to wear the classic as intended – to a cocktail do, but with a touch of sexy:

• Skip rhinestones for the evening and opt for minimalist jewellery instead. Metallic, razor-sharp earrings are the perfect fit.

• Add to the architectural cut of the jacket by carrying a sharp-edged box clutch (marbled textures are totally of the moment).

• Throw on a pair of printed sheer trousers under the jacket – it is just the right amount of risqué. The longer length of the jacket and the volume at the hips keep the look ladylike.

• Give your standard black pumps an update by opting for a pair in see-through lace. The higher the heel, the better – and make sure the pumps are pointy.

Wool and silk jacket, price on request, Dior. Organza trousers, Rs 8,000, Namrata Joshipura.  Lace pumps, price on request, Christian Louboutin. Silver earrings, Rs 8,000, Akaliko at Nimai. Acrylic box clutch, Rs 4,590, Zara

Photograph: Shovan Gandhi; Styling: Arushi Parakh; Model: Jelena/Karma Models; Make-up and Hair: Sonam Kapoor

Python skin clutch, price on request, Le Silla

Black lace and patent stilettos, price on request, Jimmy Choo

Fringed leather loafers, Rs 36,000, Tod's

You can also take the jacket to work by pairing it with dressed-down extras. Click through the gallery above to see how.

Cotton shirt, Rs 1,990, Zara

Silk scarf, price on request, Hermès

Denim pencil skirt, Rs 3,650, Marks & Spencer

'Constellation Pluma' watch, price on request, Omega