Dior’s cruise collection in Seville was an extravagant affair that combined the elegance of French chic with the passion and vibrancy of flamenco. The event, which took place in Seville’s Plaza de España, was a spectacle of fashion, music, and dance. Over 100 models graced the runway, accompanied by 60 talented ballerinas and a live orchestra.
The show coincided with the opening day of Corpus Christi and seamlessly incorporated elements of equestrian chic, Andalusian attitude, and homage to cultural icons like La Madonna. The day began with a religious procession through the city, featuring a majestic Madonna carried on a golden throne. This set the tone for an enchanting evening that culminated in a captivating dance performance by Blanca Li’s troupe. As Maria Grazia Chiuri, Dior’s creative director for women, took her bow, the dancers serenaded her, adding an extra touch of magic to the event.
Local Spanish beauties and celebrities like Elle Macpherson, Laetita Casta, and Charithra Chandran from the popular show Bridgerton attended the show and gave the collection a standing ovation. Chiuri skillfully merged sacred and fashion icons, with the opening look featuring a ska-style model in men’s pants and braces wrapped in a mantilla shawl. The collection showcased exquisite riding jackets adorned with Brandenburg closures, reminiscent of cropped boleros in the Andalusian style. These were paired with cropped flamenco pants, creating a harmonious blend of equestrian and flamenco elements.
Each look in the collection drew inspiration from local imagery, incorporating baroque architectural shapes, perforated leather skirts and jackets, and delicate filigree lace blouses. Dior’s unique aesthetic was evident in every detail, from mini saddle bags attached to horse harness belts to Stephen Jones’ horsewoman’s hats, which added a classical touch. Cut-out riding boots, jodhpurs, crops, and sexy lace shirts completed the collection, infusing it with a touch of Latin toughness.
Carmen Amaya, a legendary female flamenco dancer known as La Capitana, served as the key inspiration for Maria Grazia Chiuri. To pay tribute to her, the show featured 60 beautifully choreographed ballerinas, captivating the audience with their impressive moves and the rhythm created by the pounding of their feet. Chiuri described the fitting process as one of the most challenging ones she has ever faced, due to the energy and movement of the dancers.
In addition to Carmen Amaya, the collection drew inspiration from other iconic figures such as the Duchess of Alba and Jackie Kennedy. The evening looks incorporated Spanish embroidery and lace, reminiscent of the garments worn on statues of La Madonna found throughout the city.
The event was accompanied by a sensational live orchestra, comprising 30 talented musicians who played soundtracks from films scored by Alberto Iglesias for renowned director Pedro Almodóvar. The grand display featured a multitude of looks, adding to the sense of procession that Spaniards love. The grand finale was a sight to behold, with four alluring contessas wearing racy off-the-shoulder gowns adorned with flamenco poster prints.
Maria Grazia Chiuri’s vision of inclusivity goes beyond the surface level. In her designs, she incorporates historical and cultural influences, bringing them to the forefront. For example, she showcased the mantilla shawl, an accessory that originated in the Philippines but later became a classic image of Spanish fashion. Seville itself is a city steeped in history, blending Roman, Islamic, and Christian influences. By choosing the Alcázar Gardens as the venue for the event, Chiuri celebrated this cultural blend and created a stunning backdrop that perfectly complemented her designs.
Dior’s cruise collection in Seville was a breathtaking fusion of flamenco fantasy and French chic. It not only celebrated the beauty and richness of Spanish culture but also stayed true to the essence of the Dior brand. Maria Grazia Chiuri showcased her vision of inclusivity and circularity of ideas with masterful precision, making this event a true representation of inclusive cool at its best.
Useful links:
– https://www.dior.com/
– https://www.spain.info/en/
