We can all recite that magical feeling of entering a circus tent as a child. The sense of wonder, eagerly awaiting for what lies inside. That anticipation of the extraordinary, and being in a place where all are welcome, is what Maria Grazia Chiuri aimed to capture in Paris tonight with her SS19 couture collection for Dior.
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As guests entered the round erected space and took their seats to see how the designer was going to interpret the creative chaos of a circus. She unleashed her memories through imagery of a woman’s tattooed skin referencing the Victorian circus and the fairground phenomena.
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The palette was powdery pastel, giving the clothes a worn feeling that have been hanging backstage awaiting their next trapeze performance. Paying tribute to acrobats, trainers and riders, some of the embroidered pieces with a sequins underlay were shortened as tutus.
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We also saw references to contemporary couture through full and very light pants, narrowing at the ankle, which can also transform into jumpsuits. Shorts were paired with sheer white shirts accented with ruffs or ribbons. There were also leather corsets, sailor stripes, and black jackets inspired by that of the lion tamer.
Throughout the show, guests got to watch an animated performance by the all-female circus company Mimbre, adding to the joyful display of the finest craftsmanship that felt light and inclusive, truly wearable couture.
