The archways of the Antiguo Colegio de San Ildefonso lit up as French fashion house Dior unveiled its Cruise 2024 collection. The focus of the collection was the heritage of Mexico, which also plays an important role in the Museum and Cultural Center in Mexico City.
The iconic setting was chosen for its connection to Mexican artist Frida Kahlo, who was the focus of Creative Director Maria Grazia Chiuri’s latest collection and studied at the famous academy.
The collection, which features silk lace and intricate jacquards, celebrated Kahlo’s approach to using her clothing as a platform for protest, proclamation and affirmation.
This was evident in the inclusion of metamorphosis pieces, with cocoon-like silhouettes and butterfly motifs incorporated into both prints and corsets.
Large collars were fashioned from heavy silk or cotton draped over black velvet, while colorful embroidery provided a further reference to traditional Mexican craftsmanship.
Chiuri also worked with local artisans to design the collection. The result was a selection of dresses and shirts designed to tell a story of femininity in connection with the natural environment.
Although Kahlo was at the heart of the decision to stage a show in Mexico, the country already holds a lot of significance for the French luxury house, known for taking culture and travel as inspiration for its collections. One of the first clothes from the brand was called “Mexico”, later pieces bore similar titles like “Acapulco” or “Mexique”.
The event also attracted an impressive array of local and international celebrities including actress Naomi Watts, musician Alicia Keys and Mexican actress Karla Souza.
This translated and edited post previously appeared on FashionUnited.uk.