Hosting the show in Lecce—a small town in Puglia, southern Italy—Maria Grazia Chiuri tapped resident artisans and craftsmen to help shape a collection centred around the theme of keeping things local.
Marilena Sparacsi was commissioned to craft the tombolo embroidery that adorned dresses; Le Constantine Foundation were behind the woven textiles; Marinella Senatore created the luminarie that lit the set; even the performers and orchestra were from the area.
And, maybe most interestingly, the guest list swapped A-listers and influencers for local attendees.
The direction of the collection, too, embraced wearable separates and more casual styling, as the final cherry on top. Ankle-grazing pinafore dresses were worn over sleeveless collared shirts, sky-high heels were swapped for practical (yet, of course, achingly chic) flat boots, totes and bags had an air of sensibility (as if, perhaps, you could fit in a hearty meal for an evening soirée?), and hair was swept up into headscarves as a nod to the Italian summer.
As always, j'adore Dior.