Symbolising the interchange between reality and fantasy, Jones’ first collection for Dior Homme paid dual tribute to Monsieur Dior’s private life and creative expression.
After Virgil Abloh’s highly anticipated debut collection for Louis Vuitton, all eyes turned to Kim Jones to match the hype with Dior Homme’s Spring-Summer 2019 presentation. Instead of redefining terms like Abloh, however, Jones’ approach was to look back on the Parisian brand’s heritage.
“Dior, by Dior” read the press release. This translated to the new artistic director’s reinterpretation of the legendary fashion house codes by putting himself in the shoes of the man who founded it back in 1947 – Christian Dior.
Symbolising the interchange between reality and fantasy, Jones’ first collection for Dior Homme paid dual tribute to Monsieur Dior’s private life and creative expression. There were floral elements referencing his personal porcelain and a recurring motif inspired by his dog, Bobby. Then there were prints from the house’s archives, such as the touile le jouy which Victor Grandpierre used to decorate the original Dior boutique at 30 Avenue Montaigne.
The house’s feminine couture influences were apparent through the choice of materials and colour palette, albeit fused with sportswear to ultimately exude a sense of modern masculinity. Tulle, organza, silk and soft leather met blue, white, pink and grey hues inspired by Monsieur Dior’s Granville home.
Emblematic accessories were also borrowed from women’s collections. For the first time, the iconic Dior ‘Saddle’ bag was offered in men’s cross-body, backpack and belt-bag styles; whereas the Dior Cannage motif (a trademark of the Lady Dior bag) featured on other small leather goods.
As retrospective as it was, the collection was a fresh breath of air – especially coming from Jones, who left behind a legacy of luxury streetwear at his previous role Louis Vuitton. A sign of greater things to come for Dior Homme, perhaps?
See the collection below (swipe left for more photos).
Images: Courtesy of Dior Homme
