Kim Jones, the creative director of Dior, recently commemorated his fifth year with the fashion house by putting on a truly spectacular show. Held at the Ecole Militaire, the event was a grand affair, with the presence of LVMH CEO Bernard Arnault and his family adding to the excitement.
The show began with a bang, as the entire cast emerged on individual vertical platform lifts from a pale gray aluminum runway. The audience erupted in applause, even before the models began their walk. This theatrical opening perfectly encapsulated Jones’ reign of success at Dior. Throughout his tenure, he has consistently delivered triumphant shows and achieved impressive rises in revenues, establishing himself as one of the most influential figures in the fashion industry.
Jones’ Spring/Summer 2024 collection was a testament to his creativity and his ability to reinterpret Dior’s iconic designs. Drawing inspiration from previous Dior women’s collections, he added his own unique touch. The highlight of the collection was the new poetic suit, featuring wide pants above the ankle, paired with either matching double-breasted blazers or patch-pocket two-button blazers. The garments were embellished with delicate details such as jade dusting, sequins, and pearls, showcasing the intricate craftsmanship of the Dior atelier.
Adding a touch of Yves Saint Laurent influence, the collection also featured fantastic A-line trench coats and psychedelic striped wool beanies. The front row of the show was filled with renowned designers, further emphasizing the inclusivity and collaborative spirit within the industry.
In a noticeable departure from the norm, the collection incorporated bouclé wool and tweed, materials that are typically associated with Chanel rather than Dior. This unexpected twist blurred the lines between the two iconic fashion houses and sparked speculation regarding the connection between Jones and Karl Lagerfeld, Chanel’s former creative director. The presence of Baptiste Giabiconi, Lagerfeld’s favorite model, at the show only fueled these rumors further.
As the show came to a close, Jones took his bow to immense applause from the audience. However, some observers noticed that he did not acknowledge the Arnault family. While this detail may be insignificant, it led to discussions and rumors among fashion enthusiasts. However, backstage, another member of the Louis Vuitton family, Pharrell Williams, embraced Jones, expressing his admiration for his Dior stablemate.
Although the anniversary show received relatively less media coverage, with no backstage interviews or quotes in the press release, it remains a momentous occasion for Kim Jones. His innovative designs and creative vision continue to make an impact on the fashion industry. As he celebrates his fifth anniversary at Dior, there is no doubt that his future endeavors will continue to captivate and inspire.
Useful links:
1. Kim Jones Dior Men’s Autumn/Winter 2021
2. Kim Jones’ new Dior collection reeks of exquisite taste
