27 AUGUST 2004

Luxury house Christian Dior clearly 'adores' Hollywood actress Charlize Theron: they've broken the habit of a lifetime to sign the Oscar winner as the new face of one of their fragrances.

The South African stunner, who has been chosen to represent J'Adore perfume, is the first celeb to front the prestigious beauty brand. A Dior spokesperson explained the surprise move, saying that Charlize is a classic beauty who also represents "modern femininity."

Charlize will appear in John Galliano-created adverts for J'Adore starting next month – just when another Academy Awards queen is set to launch her own ads for a rival French scent.

Nicole Kidman's campaign for Chanel No 5, for which she reportedly earned £5 million, is also planned for release in the coming weeks. While Dior couldn't resist Charlize's femininity, it was Nic's unique elegance which attracted Chanel, said the firm.