While it has become somewhat normal for cruise collections to take place far and away (Tokyo, Brazil, Seoul)—in the same places that inspired each collection—last night Dior showed us that you don’t need to go that far from home to be inspired. The mountains of Malibu were the chosen backdrop for Maria Grazia Chiuri’s first cruise show for the house.
After getting up the mountain, guests were whisked away in ATVs and brought into a stunning space created with tents, pillows, and stone set against the setting sun with two large Dior Sauvage hot-air balloons ready to take flight. While we were in L.A., it felt more like we were in a remote ranch outside Santa Fe.
The looks that Chiuri sent down the runway were a perfect extension of the mood set. References included the designer’s favorite book, Women Who Run With Wolves, Christian Dior’s use of rock paintings by Georges Bataille, and the relationship between woman and nature. Grazia built upon her already successful silhouettes for the house by using new and heavier fabrics, heavy flat sandals, and hand-painted details. Fringe, ponchos, and flat top hats created the image of a strong yet sensual woman. How perfect, considering Rihanna was front row and Solange performed. Strong women indeed.
