The name "Dior" evokes an immediate sense of timeless elegance, exquisite craftsmanship, and revolutionary design. The Dior 2017 Dress, in the context of the Fall 2017 Couture collection, represents a pivotal moment in the brand's ongoing evolution under Maria Grazia Chiuri, the first female artistic director in Dior's history. This collection, and the dresses it showcased, served as a powerful statement, blending historical references with a modern sensibility, and solidifying Chiuri's vision for a Dior that resonated with contemporary women. This article delves into the heart of the Christian Dior Fall 2017 Couture collection, exploring its runway looks, beauty elements, the models who brought it to life, and the critical reception it received. We will also navigate the broader landscape of Dior dresses, from the iconic creations of the past to the accessibility of Dior-inspired styles today.
The Christian Dior Fall 2017 Couture Collection: A Map of the World Through the Eyes of Dior
The Fall 2017 Couture show was staged in the gardens of the Musée Rodin in Paris, a location that has become almost synonymous with Dior presentations. More than just a backdrop, the setting played a crucial role in conveying the collection's central theme: a journey through the world of haute couture, inspired by maps, exploration, and the interconnectedness of cultures.dior 2017 dress
Chiuri drew inspiration from Christian Dior's own passion for travel and his understanding of how different cultures could inform and enrich design. The collection wasn't about literal interpretations of specific cultural garments, but rather a subtle weaving of influences, reflected in silhouettes, embellishments, and the overall mood.
Runway Looks: A Symphony of Craftsmanship and Modernity
The Dior 2017 Dress manifested itself in a multitude of forms within the Fall 2017 Couture collection. The overall aesthetic leaned towards romanticism, with a focus on ethereal fabrics, intricate embroidery, and flowing silhouettes. However, Chiuri tempered this romanticism with a sense of strength and practicality, creating dresses that felt both aspirational and wearable.
* The Globe Dress: Perhaps the most iconic look from the collection was a series of dresses featuring maps printed onto delicate tulle or embroidered onto heavier fabrics. These "globe dresses" served as a visual representation of the collection's theme, with continents and oceans rendered in exquisite detail. The maps weren't merely decorative; they symbolized the journey of inspiration and the interconnectedness of the world.
* The Velvet Gowns: Luxurious velvet gowns, often in deep jewel tones like emerald green, sapphire blue, and ruby red, exuded a timeless elegance. These dresses were often paired with tailored jackets or capes, adding a touch of structure and sophistication. The velvet provided a rich canvas for intricate beading and embroidery, further elevating the sense of opulence.
* The Embroidered Tulle Dresses: Sheer tulle dresses, adorned with delicate floral embroidery and intricate beadwork, were a recurring motif throughout the collection. These dresses often featured layered skirts and flowing sleeves, creating a sense of lightness and movement. The transparency of the tulle added a touch of sensuality, while the embroidery provided a sense of depth and texture.
* The Bar Jacket Reimagined: The iconic Bar jacket, a cornerstone of Dior's heritage, was reimagined in various forms throughout the collection. Some versions were crafted from luxurious velvet, while others were adorned with intricate embroidery or map-inspired prints. The Bar jacket, often paired with flowing skirts or tailored trousers, served as a reminder of Dior's legacy while also demonstrating Chiuri's ability to reinterpret classic designs for the modern woman.
* The Day Dresses: While couture is often associated with evening wear, the Fall 2017 collection also included a selection of elegant day dresses. These dresses, often crafted from wool or silk, featured clean lines and sophisticated silhouettes. They were typically paired with tailored jackets or coats, creating a polished and professional look.
Beauty: Natural Radiance and Subtle Glamour
The beauty look for the Fall 2017 Couture show was understated and elegant, designed to complement the intricate designs of the dresses without overpowering them. The focus was on natural radiance and subtle glamour.
* Skin: Models sported flawless, dewy skin with a natural finish. A light foundation was used to even out the complexion, while strategic highlighting created a luminous glow.
* Eyes: The eye makeup was kept simple and sophisticated, with a focus on defining the eyes with a subtle liner and mascara. A touch of neutral eyeshadow was used to add depth and dimension.
* Lips: Lips were kept soft and natural, with a hint of nude or rose-toned lipstick. The overall effect was one of effortless beauty.
* Hair: Hair was styled in loose, flowing waves, adding to the collection's romantic and ethereal feel. Some models wore their hair pulled back in a simple chignon, highlighting their features and showcasing the intricate details of the dresses.
Models: A Diverse Representation of Beauty
The models who walked the runway for the Christian Dior Fall 2017 Couture show represented a diverse range of ethnicities and backgrounds. This commitment to inclusivity reflected Chiuri's vision for a Dior that embraced and celebrated all women. The models brought the dresses to life with their poise, grace, and confidence, embodying the spirit of the modern Dior woman.