Dior SS23 RTW Collection Narrates the Story of Women and Power
- Nayera Yasser
Paris fashion week is never truly complete without a full-fledged Dior show. Once again, the dreamy Maria Grazia Chiuri took her audience and loyal customers on a journey guided by brave and extraordinary noblewomen. Greeted by an enchanting scenography, guests were transported to an alternate universe constructed by Dior women’s creative director. Made out of cardboard, the whimsical grotto served as a gate guarding the magical wonderland Chiuri conceptualized in time for the new season.
Photo: Adrien Dirand, Courtesy of Dior
For the Dior spring-summer 2023 ready-to-wear, Chiuri’s northern star is none other than Catherine de Medici, an Italian noblewoman who arrived at the French court in 1533. Tracing de Medici’s legacy of feminine power, the collection redefines the era’s signature silhouettes without losing the well-celebrated Dior touch. Praised for her numerous innovations that stood the test of time, de Medici’s heels, corset, and Burano lace are at the heart of this empowering collection. Over the course of more than 80 versatile looks, the eternal waltz routine between women and power is narrated with a primary color palette, dominated by black, white and beige.
Photo: Adrien Dirand, Courtesy of Dior
Photo: Adrien Dirand, Courtesy of Dior
In the capable hands of Chiuri, the traditional corset gets a second life thanks to a quasi-geometric shape that frames the bust. De Medici’s appreciation of delicate and elaborate fabrics is also revived with guêpière, often powerfully visibly, but also sometimes included as a subtle cameo. As for the silhouettes, the designer cleverly paid homage to de Medici’s court by bringing back the era’s favored wide skirts. With that in mind, the timeless collection was peppered with picturesque floral and bird motifs – adding an ingenious affirmation of contemporary expertise.
Photo: Adrien Dirand, Courtesy of Dior
Dior’s long list of A list friends and family were certainly seated in the front row. The likes of actress Natalie Portman, actress Shailene Woodley, fashion powerhouse Olivia Palermo, entrepreneur Chiara Ferragni, and author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie were dressed and impressed by the Maison’s latest creations.