As the Olympic Games descend upon Paris, Maria Grazia Chiuri crafted a homage to athletes who have defied boundaries and shattered prejudices from antiquity until now. Her canvas? The Dior Haute Couture Autumn Winter 2024-2025 collection, where the essence of the peplum, both fluid and authoritative, takes centre stage.
Chiuri’s vision unfolds in an arena of hard-won freedoms for women’s bodies, a revolution in every stitch. This collection is more than fashion; it’s a statement. Chiuri fuses couture with sportswear, classicism with rebellion, and individual expression with collective strength. She champions the political power of the female body, showcasing a woman who is as formidable as she is elegant.
"Couture gives me the opportunity to move these references, our heritage, into new territory,” Chiuri told press ahead of her show. "Wellness, comfort, and beauty—I think these three elements are very important in our work... I want to do clothes where the body stays well, and can move freely."
The collection ...
Drawing inspiration from the birthplace of the Olympics, Greece, the collection's meticulously draped and tailored gowns, one-shouldered tunics and gladiator sandals were modernised when paired with racer back tank tops.
Pleats, an ode to motion, reappear throughout the collection, sewn down or left to flow, harmonising with each stride. Draping evokes classical sculpture, seen in silk dresses adorned with intricate embroidery, moiré jacquard skirts bearing the patina of history, and ensembles where a draped skirt dramatically reveals pants with each step. Goddess dresses, elegant and ethereal, cascade from a single shoulder, unveiling metallic tank tops edged in satin. Sports jerseys, elevated to couture status, shimmer with gold leaves and micro sequins, blending athleticism with artistry.
Chiuri defies tradition, introducing jersey—a material far from the couture realm—transformed into a luxurious metal mesh of gold, silver, and white. These fabrics lovingly caress the form, sculpted by ultralight inner bustiers that whisper of strength and grace.
Embellishments played a pivotal role, with delicate beadwork, sequins, and embroidery adding depth and texture. Each piece was a testament to the atelier's unparalleled skill, with hours of painstaking labor evident in the final presentation. Headpieces and accessories further accentuated the surrealist theme, with oversized hats and sculptural jewellery that added an element of fantasy.
The colour palette gradually evolved throughout the show, introducing rich jewel tones and metallics that shimmered under the runway lights. Deep emeralds, sapphires, and amethysts added a regal touch, while gold and silver accents brought a futuristic edge.
The location ...
The Dior Haute Couture Autumn Winter 2024/2025 collection was once again shown at the Musée Rodin in Paris, a renowned museum dedicated to the works of the famous French sculptor Auguste Rodin. Located in the elegant 18th-century Hôtel Biron, the museum houses an extensive collection of Rodin's sculptures, drawings, and personal artefacts, surrounded by beautiful gardens that showcase some of his most iconic works.
The Maison used the venue for their 2018–2021 Haute Couture collection showings as well.
The guests ...
As per usual, the Dior Haute Couture showing attracted an illustrious array of guests, including Doja Cat, Rosamund Pike, J.Lo, Jisoo and more.
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