Dior's first official calendar show in India makes history, marks fashion renaissance in the country
29 March 2023, Mumbai
Luxury fashion brand Dior is set to make history by holding its pre-fall 2023 show at the Gateway of India in Mumbai.
The show, which will take place on March 30, marks the first time a major European luxury brand has held an official calendar show in India. The collection will feature stunning evening coats, silk dresses, and skirts inspired by desi silhouettes, according to a report by Business of Fashion.
The show is a collaboration between Maria Grazia Chiuri, the creative director of Dior, and Mumbai-based atelier Chanakya School Of Craft, which celebrates India’s embroidery culture and empowers women artisans.
India is a prime market for fashion brands due to its young population, with 65% of people under the age of 35, and a growing number of millionaires. The country’s digital revolution has made luxury brands more accessible to affluent fashionistas in tier-2 and tier-3 cities, resulting in a boost in sales for international luxury companies. The Euromonitor predicts that the Indian luxury market will grow from $5.9 billion in 2022 to $6.1 billion in 2023.
Dior has a long history with India, having been inspired by the country’s intricate embroidery for its autumn-winter 1955 haute couture collection. The off-white dress with patterns of gold and peacock motifs, known as ‘Soiree de Lahore’, is vintage elegance personified and featured a shoulder drape inspired by the Indian pallu.
Dior’s decision to hold a standalone show in India highlights the commitment to empowering women artisans and celebrating India’s rich embroidery culture.
