The collection was presented at the Musée Rodin against a glorious backdrop of mosaic murals by the late Faith Ringgold (All photos: Dior)
The first record of the Olympics dates back to 776 BC in Olympia, Ancient Greece. It was held to honour the gods and ordinary citizens participated in it. The first edition had only one contest — a footrace called “the stade” — and it was won by a cook named Coroebus.
Since then, the games have evolved into the world’s biggest sporting event, held every four years in a new host city and attended by countless people from all corners of the earth. This year, it touches down in Paris after a full century and, in true French fashion, style plays a key role in this grand celebration of skill and strength, as seen in Dior’s new Autumn-Winter 2024 haute couture show.
Designed by Maria Grazia Chiuri, the collection was presented at the Musée Rodin against a glorious backdrop of mosaic murals depicting giant female athletes designed by Faith Ringgold. As the artist sadly passed away mere months ago, the artwork was put together by talented hands from the Chanakya ateliers and School of Craft, Mumbai.
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Grecian silhouettes were this season’s core detail, evoking images of mythical goddesses and muses. In startling contrast, racerback bodysuits reminiscent of athletes’ uniforms were sent down the runway alongside the gowns. Beginning with black and white before moving on to pearlescent variants of gold, silver and bronze, the looks were complemented by asymmetrical draping, cape sleeves and flowy hems. Each model walked out in sandals with laces that criss-crossed up the calves and in subtle glam showcasing “sweaty” skin to mimic that post-exercise glow.
For a sporty, modern touch, Chiuri incorporated a version of jersey material, seen in gold, black and white. This modern textile not only gave the collection a lively touch to reference the Olympics and the present-day sportswoman, but juxtaposed the silks, satins and jacquards to symbolise the rebellious, daring spirit embodied by women in sports and fashion.
See the full collection here.
This article first appeared on July 1, 2024 in The Edge Malaysia.
