The grassy café is a slice of Mediterranean heaven in the city (Photo: Dior)
It is that time of year when global temperatures begin to rise and swelter. As heat waves float up from the asphalt and dewey skin becomes the season’s hottest accessory, city dwellers with time and coin pack up their swimming shorts and flock to the coast. However, there is no rest for the wicked. Sometimes work and other obligations call. Should you find yourself stuck in the concrete jungle for whatever reason, fret not, for when the sun comes out to play, so does Dior.
In conjunction with the latest Dioriviera collection by Maria Grazia Chiuri, the French maison has brought back the ever-popular Dior Café. After last year’s grand edition at One&Only Desaru Coast, Johor, the pop-up appears in the heart of the capital city at none other than Pavilion Kuala Lumpur.
The grand entrance to the mall is a well-known landmark in bustling Bukit Bintang. Now, “Dioriviera” is splashed across the glass panes in big red font, like a large welcome sign. The open-air café is set up outside the flagship boutique, transforming it into a vibrant oasis.
Wooden tables boasting elaborately patterned surfaces and mini floral arrangements are paired with canvas patio chairs, shaded from the sun by large coral and white umbrellas sporting the Toile de Jouy Sauvage print, one of two designs spotlighted in the collection. The wild animals in it are recreated as shell-covered sculptures that can be seen prowling around the outdoor space and boutique interior.
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The set-up’s central attraction is the “Bike Café” — a bicycle-shaped installation with a cheeky-looking monkey statue perched on the window ledge. A cushioned loveseat on the back of the structure perfectly fits two, and those who are not afraid of heights may climb up the short flight of spiral stairs to reach the bird’s nest seat above. Ideal for people watching, this elevated nook offers a sprawling view of the billowing umbrellas and lively foot traffic below.
Besides the piping-hot cups of coffee served with the smiling sun from the Toile de Jouy Soleil motif printed on top, the menu features a list of confections and sweets, as well as iced drinks and cocktails for those in need of cooling down. Imagined by chef Raymond Tham of Beta KL, who has helmed the café twice before, the dessert-focused fare includes Harum Manis Mango tart with gula Melaka, floral rose and lychee cake and chocolate mousse cake with the maison’s classic Cannage design, most famously recognised on the iconic Lady Dior bags. To beat the heat, take advantage of the ice-cream stand for some chilly treats.
The beachy vibes continue inside the boutique, where several corners have been transformed to display the new fashion offerings alongside the other life-size shell-encrusted creatures as well as their Book tote and a little perfume bottle counterparts. Feminine and fresh, these wearables exude the fun and excitement of spending time outdoors in warm weather, particularly suited for the relaxed coastal towns and stylish party cities of the Mediterranean. Airy sundresses, two-piece sets, swimwear, bags and more are crafted in a shocking colour palette — bright lemon yellow, powder pink, cool aquamarine, neon coral and regal navy blue — sure to capture your attention.
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Some of the most eye-catching pieces are the hand-woven wicker renditions of the Lady Dior and D-Joy bags, super on-theme for the season; the breezy draped silk tops with the Toile de Jouy Sauvage print that pair perfectly with shorts for a casual look or trousers for something a little more smart; the flared midi dress with the sun design that comes with a square neckline and mother-of-pearl buttons along the front closure; and the A-line skirts with the collection’s signature wildlife depicted in fine technical cotton lace.
While the Dioriviera collection is primarily womenswear, the maison’s Beach Capsule line for men can also be found here. Classic silhouettes such as the Dior Oblique shorts and button-up shirts in sumptuous silk twill take on new colours such as crimson and mint, while beach-going necessities like rubber soled sandals, drawstring tote bags and sunglasses complete a practical and polished look.
Last but not least, do not forget to browse the new Dior Maison items — homeware and lifestyle goodies — exclusively stocked at the Pavilion KL outlet. From yoga mats and parasols to deck chairs and table tennis sets, one cannot help but envision gathering with their friends and basking under the sun in a backyard or seaside. Of course, things just as useful indoors as they are outside are also available. Gold-rimmed glassware sets, porcelain dishes and candles are perfect for an evening picnic on the grass, or for setting the mood at an intimate dinner party.
The Dior Café is open until July 21. Make reservations here.
This article first appeared on June 24, 2024 in The Edge Malaysia.
