Raf Simons Debuts His First Collection for Dior
Photos courtesy of Style.com
After over a year of endless rumors on who would be named Dior's new designer, Raf Simons debuted his first couture collection for the fashion house earlier today in Paris.
With a live stream and a guest list including Diane Von Furstenberg, Alber Elbaz, Jennifer Lawrence, Anna Wintour, Marc Jacobs, Marion Cotillard, Melanie Laurent, and Sharon Stone, it's safe to say that the world was eager to see what Simon had in store for Dior.
The show kicked off with sleek, black silhouettes in the form of exquisitely tailored suits featuring cropped trousers and orbed peplums before breaking into 50s inspired gowns complete with balloon skirts and pointy bust lines. Textures, colors, and details became more intricate and extravagant as the show progressed, showcasing everything you'd want in a couture collection: hand beading, feathers, exotic hues, sumptuous furs, etc.
One of the more pressing questions about Simons's first show was whether he understood the underlying aesthetic of Dior, and if he would be bringing his signature minimal/architectural shapes and silhouettes to the fashion powerhouse. The answer to both questions is, yes.
Simons debuted a collection that paid hommage to the history of Dior — elegant shapes, elaborate detailing, overruling femininity — while simultaneously introducing new, modern silhouettes that painted a picture into the house's future.
This is not only a strong start for Simons and his new venture as Creative Director, but a powerful and promising look at the next chapter of Dior's life. We can't wait to see what's next.
