Dior Pre-Fall 2023 collection pays homage to the culture and artistry of India
Maria Grazia Chiuri presented the collection at the Gateway of India in Mumbai as a joyous ode to the country.
Maria Grazia Chiuri has a long-standing connection to India, as she always had a deep working relationship and friendship with Karishma Swali, the director of Chanakya School of Craft in Mumbai.
And when she encountered a photo of artistic director Marc Bohan arriving in Delhi and Mumbai for Dior shows in April 1962 from the Dior archive, it sparked her journey for the Pre-Fall 2023 collection.
This collection shown in Mumbai celebrates the long-lasting relationship between Dior and Chanakya and is also an ode to Indian savoir-faire and the richness of Indian textiles.
This cross-cultural collaboration has led to a collection that embraces traditional silhouettes, expert craftsmanship, and extraordinary techniques derived from India while showcasing Dior's signature aesthetic and wearability.
From sari-inspired straight skirts to Christian Dior ‘Bar’ jacket with Nehru-style collar and the ‘Jardin Indien’ – a new iteration of toile de Jouy featuring Indian flora and fauna –, the collection perfectly interpreted the bond between Indian artisans and the French house.
With an evocative colour palette including rani pink, neela blue, and jamuni violet as a tribute to Marc Bohan, and intricate savoir-faire such as block printing, mirror, and aari embroidery from Chanakya ateliers.
This collection is not only about fashion pieces, but it’s also a creative vision that fully celebrated the collaboration between Dior and Chanakya, as well as the bond between France and India.
