Maria Grazia Chiuri, the visionary designer at the helm of Christian Dior, draws inspiration from the legendary actress Marlene Dietrich for the Dior Fall 2024 campaign. Chiuri, who has long been fascinated by Dietrich's blend of masculine and feminine style, telling Vogue before the show, "Marlene Dietrich was a really important reference to Mr. Dior, and I was fascinated by her. Her use of masculine, feminine, sport, and glamorous looks to define herself. I think that she was one of the first actresses that understood the power of fashion to define herself and her work."
The campaign, masterfully captured by photographer Collier Schorr, showcases models embodying Dietrich's iconic elegance. Set against minimalistic backdrops reminiscent of backstage scenes, the images transition from shadow to light, black and white to color, and the '50s to the present day, bringing the collection's duality to life.
The garments themselves pay homage to Dietrich's signature style while incorporating Dior's emblematic codes. Pencil skirts grazing the knee and enchanting petticoat dresses adorned with delicate lace offer tantalizing glimpses of lingerie, elevating the collection's inherent subtlety. Architectural jackets, wide-leg pleated pants, and elongated, lined coats punctuate the collection, while exquisite embroidery inspired by the clover and the bee adds a touch of irresistible poetry. Collars adorned with structural intarsia make a striking statement, further emphasizing the collection's refined aesthetic.
Freedom and movement take center stage with the introduction of mini versions of iconic bags, such as the Lady Dior, a symbol of the House's exceptional savoir-faire. The Spectadior pumps and Dior Star sneakers reflect the collection's multifaceted femininity, seamlessly blending timelessness with contemporary flair, echoing Chiuri's love for New York's influence on fashion, particularly sportswear, and its alignment with her design philosophy of practicality and ease of wear.
As Marlene Dietrich famously declared, "No Dior, no Dietrich!" – a testament to the enduring partnership between the legendary actress and the iconic fashion House. The Dior Fall 2024 campaign is a prodigious exploration of possibilities, celebrating the convergence of self-assertion and collective energy, refinement and fluidity. Through Maria Grazia Chiuri's visionary designs and Collier Schorr's evocative imagery, the collection invites us to embrace the eternal allure of Marlene Dietrich, reimagined for the modern era, while paying homage to Christian Dior's global aspirations and the House's enduring legacy.