Why Creativity And Fashion Remain “Fundamental” In Difficult Times

Dior’s creative director, Maria Grazia Chiuri opens up to L’Officiel Singapore about her exceptionally personal Cruise 2021 collection, and why creativity and fashion remain “fundamental” in difficult times

- Ian Lee

Puglia is the birthplace of your father, and since this is quite a personal collection for you, could you tell us how you translated your memories and love for the area directly into the collection?

Puglia represents my origins. Its atmosphere, streets, palazzi, and landscapes – everything there speaks to me of my family, and my own personal history. The collection is a celebration of Pugliese traditions, and also of femininity in all its facets. And of the creative value of the push and pull between the local and the global. We forged ties with the very talented artisans of the region, making every aspect of the collection – from conception to production to publicising – something shared and made with the people who work to preserve the extraordinary heritage of Salento.

We worked with Le Costantine Foundation to develop fabric using age-old techniques and looms, and even decided to embroider their motto, Cantando e Amando (“singing and loving”), on a series of skirts, to strengthen the tie and shout it out loud and clear. When it came to embellishments on the clothing, we turned to Marilena Sparasci, one of the last embroidery artists, who practices and teaches the complex technique of bobbin lace. We also worked with the Fratelli Parisi company, which is famous for spectacular light installations, to give warmth to the show’s set, and we asked Agostino Branca, a master potter, to create a series of plates for us featuring tarot cards. He paired that with wildflowers and plant motifs typical of the Salento region.