Kim Jones and Eli Russell Linnetz came together to present the highly anticipated Dior Men’s 2023 capsule collection in California. The show took place in Venice, where Linnetz’s studio is located, and despite the gloomy weather, it was a spectacle of creativity and fashion.
The show kicked off on Windward Avenue, a historic part of Venice famous for its canals. The street was transformed with a traditional “Venice” light garland displaying Dior and ERL, creating a captivating atmosphere. Neon palm trees and a vibrant ocean blue backdrop set the stage for a remarkable runway.
A star-studded audience including celebrities like Christina Aguilera, Christina Ricci, Nicola Peltz, and South Korean rapper Sehun gathered at the event, excited to witness the fusion of Dior’s tailoring and Linnetz’s pop and offbeat style. The parade consisted of 40 unique looks, each blending the distinct aesthetics of the two designers.
The collection began with oversized gray and metallic gray tones, paying tribute to Christian Dior’s favorite color and Kim Jones’ initial collection for Dior. Creative pieces like embroidered and feathered shorts paired with sweaters featuring the slogan “California Couture” added a playful touch. Pastel colors dominated the runway, showcasing the vibrant hues of Los Angeles, with shades like almond green, pink, and lilac taking center stage.
Tinsel, symbolizing Hollywood glamour, adorned the collection with its turquoise, red, and silver shades, appearing on pants, sweatshirts, and a revamped version of the famous Dior saddle bag designed specifically for men. The show also introduced a beach cape, exuding an additional layer of luxury fit for high-end parties.
The quilted spirit was a recurring theme throughout the collection, showcased on sweaters, sneakers, and pants. This design element paid homage to Dior’s archives, particularly the era of Gianfranco Ferré. Linnetz described it as a “coming together of chaos and perfectionism,” representing a fusion of his own style with Dior’s heritage.
The show concluded with a stunning white groom’s suit complemented by an exquisite hat with a veil. The combination of shiny, relaxed, and refined elements perfectly exemplified the collaboration between Jones and Linnetz.
Kim Jones expressed his admiration for Linnetz, emphasizing the fresh perspective he brings to the Dior brand. Working with a younger designer on Dior Men felt incredibly inspiring to Jones, resulting in a collection that seamlessly merged tradition, fashion-forwardness, and creativity.
In addition to the physical show, Dior offered a virtual reality experience through the Horizon Venues platform. Owners of Oculus helmets could immerse themselves in an amphitheater surrounded by other users’ avatars, blurring the boundaries between physical and digital fashion events.
The Dior Men’s 2023 capsule collection showcased a beautiful harmony of Dior’s heritage and Eli Russell Linnetz’s unique vision. It demonstrated the limitless potential of collaboration and the ability to push the boundaries of fashion. With Kim Jones and Linnetz at the helm, Dior continues to captivate the industry, setting new trends, and inspiring the next generation of designers.
Useful links:
1. Dior Men’s Fashion
2. ERL Official Website
