Dior’s couture show at Paris Fashion Week was a moment of contemplation and showcased an incredible collection of wearable clothes. The front row was filled with powerful female stars, including Glenn Close, Rihanna, Carla Bruni, and Natalie Portman, adding to the excitement of the event. The highlight of the show was the collaboration between Dior and artist Isabella Ducrot, whose giant installation, Big Aura, adorned the walls of the show space.
The installation featured over twenty five-meter-high dresses pinned to the walls, creating a visually stunning display. Inspired by Ottoman sultan fashion, the dresses added an air of elegance to the space against a backdrop of irregular black stripe wallpaper. On the runway, models flaunted a range of khaki looks, such as trench coats, coat dresses, and trench cocktails, perfectly balancing French finesse with a touch of restraint.
The collection also had moments of explosion with light, as organza chemises, gowns, and pants adorned with intricate details like scrolls, foliage girandoles, beads, raffia, and lacquered rhodoids took the stage. These pieces truly showcased the delicate and intricate nature of Paris couture. The standout fabric of the collection was a new light moiré, available in iridescent colors like gold, white, gray, burgundy, and green. It was used in stylish new bar jackets and the classic Dior New Look full skirt, making them instant couture must-haves.
The show was accompanied by a carefully curated soundtrack by sound architect Michelle Gaubert, featuring tracks from Bjork and Rosalía. The models on the runway were exceptional, thanks to seasoned casting director Michelle Lee. Overall, it was a professionally executed show that highlighted the immense talent of designer Maria Grazia Chiuri.
Chiuri explained the concept behind the installation, stating that the idea of “Aura” represents the ever-changing and contemplative nature of haute couture as an art form. Just like each garment is adapted to the wearer’s body, it carries its own unique aura. This inspiration, drawn from Walter Benjamin’s theory of aura in his renowned work, The Work of Art in the Age of Mechanical Reproduction, added depth to the collection and showcased Chiuri’s ability to incorporate intellectual concepts into her designs.
In contrast to the bold and dramatic Schiaparelli show that opened Paris Fashion Week, Dior’s couture collection was more refined and restrained. However, this is precisely what sets Maria Grazia Chiuri apart as a powerful designer. She understands what women want to wear and creates clothes that can be worn in different situations and moods.
In a pre-show preview, Chiuri emphasized the importance of functionality in her designs. She treats each garment as a project, carefully considering how it can be easy to wear and practical, even in the rarefied world of haute couture. This approach reflects her understanding of the modern woman’s needs and desires.
Dior’s contemplative couture collection, brought to life through Chiuri’s collaboration with artist Isabella Ducrot, not only showcased the brand’s artistry but also its commitment to wearability. With stunning pieces and a strong focus on functionality, Dior proved once again why it remains at the forefront of the fashion industry.
If you want to learn more about Dior’s couture show at Paris Fashion Week, you can check out these useful links:
1. Vogue: Christian Dior Collections – Get a closer look at Dior’s collections and stay up to date with the latest fashion trends.
2. Dior: Couture – Explore Dior’s couture creations and discover the craftsmanship behind their iconic designs.
