Maria Grazia Chiuri’s latest collection for Dior showcased an ode to India and her long-standing professional relationship with Karishma Swali, Director of Chanakya Atelier and Chanakya School of Craft.
The affair between Chiuri and her love of India was felt through the collection’s showcase and the colourful ambience present in front of the iconic Gateway to India, creating a beautiful homage to the country.
The collection celebrated Indian heritage throughout, with animal inspirations to the banyan trees, sari-influenced skirts, and Nehru collars combined with Dior silhouettes harmonised pieces to appear perfect for the day-to-night transition.
As the late former Vogue editor Diane Vreeland once said, “Pink is the navy blue of India”, and that certainty showed through the vivid fuchsia that appeared across the collection.
Notably, the Chanakya School of Craft focuses on giving women opportunities within the male-dominated industry in India. With fair wages, free childcare and quality education, they are changing the narrative for Indian artisans to unleash their full potential. Their partnership with Dior over the past few years has shone a light onto a notoriously hidden part of the industry, but in the interest of ethical production and accountability, Dior providing a look into their supply chain may ease consumers’ minds.
The star-studded event saw everyone from modelling legends such as Karlie Kloss and Cara Delevigne to Bollywood icons Sonam Kapoor Ahuja and Anushka Sharma. The Princess of Jaipur, Princess Gauravi Kumari, also managed to attend despite her busy schedule working with the Princess Diya Kumari Foundation, which gives women a space to create traditional clothing and accessories in Jaipur.
Isha Ambani, daughter of the Indian billionaire Mukesh Ambani was also in attendance just days before her family hosted another major event in India, the opening of the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre, championing Indian art and heritage.
From the social media world, Mumbai-based Juhi Godambe Jain was present along with Caroline Daur and German influencer Xenia Adonts. Businesswoman Natasha Poonawalla also attended the major event.
This was a memorable night as India received well-deserved recognition for their contributions to the industry, which hopefully marks a new beginning for artisans and the creation of sustainable supply chains.
Check out the collection below.
