Against a background of flamenco music, the models with ethereal faces powdered in white came to life like characters out of masterpieces such as Picasso's "Harlequin," or "La Gouloue," the Moulin Rouge dancer who inspired Toulouse-Lautrec.

"There's a close proximity in their talents. John has many creative talents that are close to those of Mr Dior himself and this is the reason why I chose him 10 years ago," said Bernard Arnault, head of LVMH which includes the Dior brand.

"They share the femininity and romanticism but also the modernity and extravagance ... Christian Dior was not classical at all in the 1950s. He was revolutionary. Today he looks classical. It is like Picasso," said Arnault.

SILENCE

Galliano attempted to silence those who say he has betrayed Christian Dior's spirit as he produced a stark knee-length white satin dress with a tight waist adorned with a big rose and narrow sleeves elegantly hugging the tip of the shoulders.

"Almost Famous" actress Kate Hudson applauded heartily as the last evening creation, a one-strap embroidered emerald bustier dress was presented before Galliano proudly marched on stage in a bullfighter suit, with his long hair hanging loose.

"I love him," said James Bond girl Eva Green, in a Dior-designed Chinese pink satin dress. "He has the Dior chic and on top of that a certain madness."

Galliano later changed into gypsy clothes and was cheered by flamenco guitar players and dancers at a ball thrown by LVMH in the candle-lit Orangery gardens, flanked by two 100-step staircases leading to the Palace.

Also present were film makers Pedro Almodovar and Sophia Coppola.

Christian Dior's first collection in 1947 introduced a sharply feminine silhouette with a nipped-in waist, opening on to a long-hemmed voluminous dress made with 20 meters of fabric, a style some critics deemed obscene after years of war shortages.

"I have designed flower women," Dior was quoted as saying of his style, which Harpers Bazaar reportedly coined "New Look."

Yves Saint Laurent and Italian designer Gianfranco Ferre who died last month also worked for the Dior house before Galliano brought his new "New Look."

Galliano's theatrical shows and emphasis on accessories such as bags, sunglasses and jewelry has contributed to transforming the French fashion house into a global brand.