Christian Dior Resort 2025 Collection
The sound of bagpipes can stir up strange emotions. For those who are not familiar with the term, “skirl” refers to the haunting and sometimes headache-inducing wail that bagpipes produce. Maria Grazia Chiuri chose to open and close her Dior resort show in the beautiful gardens of Drummond Castle in Scotland with the skirl of bagpipes. As a Scot who usually doesn’t get sentimental over such sounds, I found myself unexpectedly moved by the performance.
Chiuri’s collection seamlessly blended the rich history of the house of Dior with the romantic and at times turbulent history of Scotland. The overall feeling that stood out was desire, as Chiuri’s creations always manage to balance a sense of realism with a touch of transcendence. The resort show also provided a glimpse into how women of all ages and body types can effortlessly carry off Chiuri’s designs with sophistication and ease.
The designer drew inspiration from traditional Scottish elements such as tartan, cashmere, tweed, and Argyle patterns. She expertly incorporated these textiles into a collection that paid homage to the geopolitics of fabrics, the political embroideries of Mary Stuart, and the punk aesthetic, resulting in a rebellious yet beautiful ensemble. Classic Dior bar jackets were reimagined using plaid shawls, corsets exuded an armorial vibe, and dresses were adorned with intricate floral embroideries and lace details.
Accessories like leather chokers with suspended pearls, studded crossbody bags, and edgy biker boots complemented the outfits. Chiuri’s commitment to collaboration with local designers and artisans from Scotland added authenticity to the collection. From Johnstons of Elgin to Esk Cashmere and Robert Mackie, each piece showcased the craftsmanship and heritage of Scottish textiles.
The extensive research and attention to detail in Chiuri’s work reflect her dedication to exploring the deeper meaning behind her designs. By delving into the history of Dior and its global influence, she was able to create a collection that paid tribute to the past while embracing the present. The show was inspired by images from a charity event hosted by Monsieur Dior in postwar Scotland, highlighting the juxtaposition between glamour and everyday life.
Chiuri’s resort collection for 2025 not only celebrated the spirit of Scotland but also emphasized the importance of theatricality and bold statements in contemporary fashion. The fusion of realism with a touch of drama added a new dimension to her creations, signaling a shift towards more expressive and dynamic designs. As the sound of bagpipes echoed through the garden, Chiuri’s message rang loud and clear: fashion is not just about brands, but about storytelling and artistic expression.