At a dreamlike crossroad between the Mediterranean, Europe, and Africa, Dior’s Cruise 2020 collection was presented in Marrakech, under the moonlight and amidst twinkling candles and fiery torches. Maria Grazia Chiuri’s goal of establishing creative exchanges with African cultures was emphasized with her designs, bringing forth a space of common territory at an intersection of diversity.
Morocco’s status as a meeting place of different cultures and geographies, was a starting point for the new collection. A textile map employed traditional wax print fabrics—including a collaboration with the Uniwax factory and studio—to reimagine the house’s iconic Toiles de Juoy. Channeling Mediterranean influences, gauzy silks draped off the body in Goddess-like silhouettes that flowed to the ground. Deep, earthy colors are seen on African-inspired prints featuring lions and other wildlife, and contemporary European variations are seen in accessories like tiny plaid handbags and lace-up mesh boots.