Dreamy Details at Dior Spring/Summer 2017
A Tale to Tell
It is clearly the storytelling aspect that has enchanted viewers of the new Dior under Chiuri. The strongest of those stories belongs to Monsieur Christian Dior, the founder of the house and a superstitious man who was fascinated with astrology and believed in the power of tarot cards. Naturally, these elements have been infused into the collection as details. There are cosmic elements aplenty. For instance, a series of constellations has been embroidered by hand onto skirts, making the garments seem like they belong in the sky, drifting. As a personal touch, the word “J’adior” has been sewn thread by delicate thread to look like handwriting.
Updated Silhouettes
Dior is a historical house known for its construction, mostly due to the iconic silhouette of the New Look. In those days the waist-tucking Bar suit was rigid, and covered pretty much everything. Chiuri, however, presents light and exposing alternatives for today. Instead of using shantung (like the 1947 collection did) for her adaptations, she has opted for sheer tulle to create a range of relaxed bustier dress. As a result, Chiuri is able to play with layers, exposing briefs with Christian Dior waistbands. Despite its transparency, the design remains dignified.
Mother Nature
Nature-centric details highlight the importance of Mother Nature to a woman. Take this quilted top adorned with a lobster, for instance – a softening element to the fencing-inspired, genderless attire in the collection’s initial looks. Other garments are covered in an array of foliage and fauna, all delicately embroidered and topped with beading. The hearts add a touch of emotion to a collection dubbed “feminist”.
Photography: Sophie Carre