Remix reviews: Dior SS22 Haute Couture Collection
After nearly two years of online catwalks, Paris fashion week has established its mark on the world again with the Dior fashion show stealing the hearts of all those that watched it. From sheer glitter gowns to tailored suits, and dresses where silk fabric meets chained collars. This SS22 Haute Couture Collection by Dior re-installed our love for divine couture after the many months of 2021 being in sweats and pyjamas.
The glamorous show creatively directed by Maria Grazia Chiuri was hosted in the gardens of Musée Rodin, where the walls showcased large-scale commissioned works from renowned Indian artists Madhvi and Manu Parekh. The Aztec-like artwork perfectly complemented the fashion through the juxtaposition of airy, refined, light garments with bold, spiritual abstract artworks. “The idea was to celebrate craft, but also to celebrate our cultures and the interconnectivity between cultures and craft,” said Karishma Swali, the director of Chanakya, who aided in the show's creation. She stated: “The entire installation is about 340 m2 entirely embroidered by hand by 380 of our artisans. If you want to get into the hours of the piece”.
As the models glided down the Parisian runway alongside the vivid art the garments screamed hyper-femininity, with intricate beading, and delicate materials of silk, sheer chiffon and feathered fabrics. Maria outlined that: “The collection celebrates the atelier…I wanted to explain that the atelier is different to what it was in the past. It’s not just Avenue Montaigne. It’s something that exists around the world. We have different ateliers – in Paris, in India – and a dialogue between them. It’s about realising something together. It’s community work.” Through the creativity within the show’s artwork, design, and garments, it became clear very quickly that Dior can do no wrong.
The show’s fashion encapsulated glamour and beauty with gowns that provided a sense of purity and couture daywear that gave an office-chic feel. Maria Grazia Chiuri even outlined that a lot of the pieces “often felt quite bridal”, providing all those who are itching to get hitched post lockdown some exquisite dresses to choose from. Thank you, Dior.
Within the collection, the palette consisted of muted tones such as blacks, greys, and whites to demonstrate the importance and beauty of embroidery in haute couture. The colouring of the clothing continued to provide a clear juxtaposition within Madhvi and Manu Parekh’s artworks adding to the spectacle. Despite the contrast between the embroidery and the art, they were both the true stars of the show. Within many of the dresses the structuring of embroidery was made so masterful it looked to be lace, while other pieces were crafted together so precisely they were seen to be connected by magic. Each piece within the collection took input and structuring from countless artisans which is common within haute couture. Maria stated: “In fashion, there is this idea to celebrate the genius of the creative director like he’s done it all alone. It’s not true”.
This exhibition of divine fashion and bold artworks showcased true haute couture within a worldly display, once again making its mark on our hearts, wardrobes, and bank accounts.
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