Design

Reimagining Dior SS25: A fusion of craft and archive

The South African ceramicist Hylton Nel’s influence was evident throughout, with his endearing animal figures adorning socks and inspiring the studded outlines on various garments.

Por: Rubén Carrillo
Reimagining Dior SS25: A fusion of craft and archive / Photo via Dior
Reimagining Dior SS25: A fusion of craft and archive / Photo via Dior

Kim Jones’ 60th collection for Dior ventured beyond impeccable tailoring, weaving a narrative that intertwined artistry and heritage. 

 

This collaborative spirit extended to Stephen Jones’ woven hats, fringed with substantial ceramic beading crafted by South African artisans.

 

The collection embodied a duality, seamlessly blending elements. Modern tailoring, rendered in striking two-tone fabrics, exuded a sculptural elegance. 

 

Workwear pieces, like tailored jackets and linen-cotton artist’s smocks, possessed a sleekness that defied their utilitarian origins. Several looks paid homage to Dior’s womenswear archive, with pleated pants transforming into regal wrap closures. 

Jones explained, “It’s about deconstructing womenswear and putting it back together as menswear.” A coat even echoed an unproduced design sketched by Yves Saint Laurent for the house.

 

While the purity of Jones’ designs is undeniable, the sheer intensity of craft often goes unnoticed. The Nel floral jacket, for example, demanded a staggering 600 hours of hand-beaded embroidery. 

 

These intricate pieces, Jones revealed, are highly sought-after by the house’s most dedicated clientele. A playful touch emerged on a sweater emblazoned with the phrase “Dior for my real friends,” adapted from a plate Nel received from the designer. 

 

Jones clarified, “We turned it into ‘Dior for my friends’ because they all ask for Dior.” This sentiment resonated through the collection, a testament to Jones’ unwavering dedication to delivering exceptional fashion for the Dior faithful.

Reimagining Dior SS25: A fusion of craft and archive / Photo via Dior
Reimagining Dior SS25: A fusion of craft and archive / Photo via Dior

The birth of a fashion powerhouse

Founded in 1946 by Christian Dior himself, the house rose to prominence with the revolutionary “New Look.” 

 

This post-war collection introduced cinched waists, full skirts, and a return to luxurious fabrics, a stark contrast to the utilitarian styles of the wartime era. The “New Look” redefined femininity and propelled Dior to the forefront of fashion.

 

Dior’s influence extends far beyond clothing. In 1947, the house launched its first fragrance, “Miss Dior,” named after Christian Dior’s friend and muse. 

 

This floral scent marked the beginning of a successful fragrance line, with iconic additions like “J’adore” and “Dior Homme” solidifying Dior’s position as a leader in the luxury fragrance market.

Reimagining Dior SS25: A fusion of craft and archive / Photo via Dior
Reimagining Dior SS25: A fusion of craft and archive / Photo via Dior

A legacy of artistic directors

Following Christian Dior’s passing in 1957, the house witnessed a lineage of talented artistic directors who each brought their unique vision.

 

 Names like Yves Saint Laurent, Marc Bohan, Gianfranco Ferré, John Galliano, Raf Simons, and Maria Grazia Chiuri have all left their mark on Dior, ensuring the brand’s constant evolution while staying true to its core essence.

Reimagining Dior SS25: A fusion of craft and archive / Photo via Dior
Reimagining Dior SS25: A fusion of craft and archive / Photo via Dior

We hope you enjoyed this article about Dior. If you did, please share it with others. You might also be interested in reading our article about LVMH, or browsing other reviews in our Design section.

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