Dior's Fall/Winter 2017-18 Haute Couture collection was unveiled on July 3rd at the Hôtel des Invalides in Paris. Celebrating the 70th anniversary of Christian Dior's first collection, the collection kicked off with a look in gray, a color familiar to the couturier. It was inspired by the world's first female adventurers. Maria Grazia Chiuri was inspired by a 1953 map sculpture by Albert Decali depicting the House's global expansion, as well as a quote from the couturier's autobiography, "Christian Dior et moi (Christian Dior and I)": "A perfect collection must address every woman in every country." Dresses and jackets crafted from iconic men's wardrobe materials like houndstooth and herringbone were given an iridescent sheen thanks to the Maison's proprietary technology, while delicate leather belts created silhouettes reminiscent of the "eight-line" silhouette. Flowing tulle and silk dresses shone femininely with pleats, ruffles, ethnic fringe, and delicate organza flowers. A striking leather jumpsuit, inspired by the style of female pilots of the 1930s, featured a shearling collar layered over an organza shirt. A black velvet dress, a reinterpretation of the 1957 "San Francisco" dress, paid homage to Monsieur Dior. This dress was one of many looks on the runway showcasing graphic necklines. Outerwear included oversized capes and gowns embroidered with world maps and floral motifs, as well as patchwork velvet coats. The familiar tarot motif appeared on an exotic satin embroidered gown. It's easy to imagine the time and effort required to handcraft the exquisitely delicate and intricate embroidery by the atelier's artisans.
The accessories were also more outstanding than ever this season. Masculine felt hats by Stephen Jones were inspired by female adventurers, including Freya Stark, the famous Arabian desert explorer. Sunglasses, a redesign of a 1976 eyewear piece, retaining its curves and volume, were given a contemporary style. Derby shoes, Velcro boots, crocodile sandals, and Dior Tribal earrings perfectly expressed the modern and elegant adventurous style of the Dior woman.
