Inspired by Angela Carter’s gory post-modernism in The Bloody Chamber, Dior Creative Director Maria Grazia Chiuri delivered a twisted fairytale fantasy for AW21. Taking us into the liminal space of these stories, which often represent a meeting of the magical and the mundane, the historic house’s video presentation crafted a dreamscape where familiar silhouettes and narratives are reframed and given new meaning.
Taking place in the Hall of Mirrors at the Palace of Versailles, the epicentre of royal decadence, the collection was debuted alongside a surreal dance number choreographed by Sharon Eyal, plunging us into the disorientating world of the folkloric. It’s worth noting that the chosen location didn’t just create an air of opulence but added another significant layer of meaning. Namely, Madame d’Aulnoy and Madame Leprince de Beaumont, two female French writers, known for their popular versions of fairytales, were among the court of Versailles in the 17th and 18th Century.
By paying homage to female writers, the notion that women should have the agency to write their own fairytale endings is at the heart of the collection — a feminist message that comes as no surprise. With the offering presented on International Women’s Day (8 March), by a creative director whose models once walked beneath signs reading “Consent” and “Patriarchy Kills”, gender politics ring loud and proud with every Dior collection with Chiuri at its helm.
The clothes themselves swung from Hansel and Gretel preppy chic, with Broderie Anglaise collars and pinafores, to understated Little Red Riding Hood glamour, with hooded jackets and crimson head wraps. Concluding with a flourish, models walked in belle of the ball evening gowns featuring voluminous tulle, sweeping skirts and rose detailing.
The perfect clothing to indulge your main character syndrome…
Check out some of our favourite looks from the collection below.
