Receive an intimate immersion into the world of treasured tradition in Kyoto, Japan, in the company of Dior ambassador Anna Sawai as she is instructed in the dos and don'ts of the tea ceremony and visits the Fukuda kimono-making atelier where she even does some silk painting of her own. Later, after selecting her outfit and putting the finishing touches to her Dior Beauty look, it's off the the magnificent setting of the city's Toji gardens and the unveiling of the Dior Fall 2025 collection by Maria Grazia Chiuri.
Christian Dior's Pre-Fall 2025 collection made a poignant return to Japan, marking its first show in Kyoto in over seven decades. On April 15, the iconic fashion house presented its latest creations at the historic Tō-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site established in 796. This event not only highlighted Dior's longstanding admiration for Japanese culture but also showcased a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity. A Historic Venue: Tō-ji Temple The Tō-ji Temple, renowned for its towering five-story pagoda—the tallest wooden pagoda in Japan—provided a serene and culturally rich backdrop for the fashion show. The temple's expansive gardens, adorned with blooming cherry blossoms, set a tranquil stage that perfectly complemented the collection's themes of elegance and craftsmanship. This choice of location underscores Dior's commitment to honoring cultural heritage while presenting contemporary fashion Maria Grazia Chiuri's Vision Creative Director Maria Grazia Chiuri drew inspiration from Dior's historical ties to Japan, particularly Christian Dior's collaboration with a Kyoto-based silk workshop in the 1950s. This partnership led to the creation of haute couture pieces that seamlessly integrated Japanese textiles with French design sensibilities. Chiuri's Pre-Fall 2025 collection continued this legacy, featuring kimono-inspired silhouettes, wide-sleeved jackets, and long overcoats in subdued tones. The designs incorporated glimmering floral patterns and were complemented by accessories such as cross-body bags and single earrings, reflecting a modern interpretation of traditional Japanese aesthetics .
Related article - Uphorial Sweatshirt
Beauty Inspired by Cherry Blossoms The beauty concept for the show, curated by Dior's Creative and Image Director of Makeup, Peter Philips, was inspired by the delicate hues of cherry blossoms. Models showcased a natural, watercolor-like makeup effect, with soft pinks enhancing pale and Asian complexions, and rich Bordeaux shades highlighting deeper skin tones. Blush was applied beneath the eyes and diffused outward, creating a fresh and free-form appearance. This approach emphasized softness with a bold edge, aligning with the collection's themes of understated elegance and modernity . A Tribute to Japanese Craftsmanship Dior's collaboration with Tatsumura Textile Co., a traditional Japanese textile company, played a pivotal role in the collection's development. The partnership involved modifying silver-based fabrics from the 15th and 16th centuries to create modern designs that honored Japan's rich textile heritage. This fusion of historical materials with contemporary design exemplified Dior's dedication to cultural appreciation and innovation. Conclusion Dior's Pre-Fall 2025 show in Kyoto was more than a fashion presentation; it was a celebration of cultural exchange and artistic collaboration. By choosing the Tō-ji Temple as the venue, Dior not only showcased its latest collection but also paid homage to the enduring influence of Japanese craftsmanship on global fashion. This event reaffirmed Dior's position as a brand that values tradition while embracing innovation, creating a timeless narrative that resonates with audiences worldwide.
