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Dior’s Pre-Fall 2025 Collection Unveiled at the To-ji Temple

Dior transported its pre-fall 2025 runway show to the picturesque setting of To-ji Temple in Kyoto, Japan, coinciding with the brief yet enchanting cherry blossom season. The evening spectacle was enhanced by the soft illumination of sakura trees, accompanied by the ethereal sounds of “Coloratura” by Ichiko Aoba, which formed part of the runway soundtrack. Notable attendees included actresses Anna Sawai and Lily James, who added glamour to the international fashion event.

Creative director Maria Grazia Chiuri’s collection drew inspiration from Dior’s historic ties to Japan. The fashion house’s founder, Monsieur Dior, famously created collections reflecting the beauty of Japanese gardens and collaborated with renowned craftspeople like those from Tatsumura Textile. In 1953, Dior made history by becoming the first couture house to showcase its designs in Japan. This connection has persisted over the decades, with designers like John Galliano also referencing Japanese culture in his works, notably in the Dior S/S 07 haute couture collection inspired by Puccini’s opera Madame Butterfly. Chiuri’s latest designs include prints and shapes that resonate with Dior’s legacy in Japan, further detailing the brand’s long-standing artistic dialogue with the country.

Setting the Scene: To-ji Temple

The enchanting show took place at the To-ji Temple, which was beautifully illuminated against the night sky, complemented by the sight of cherry blossoms in full bloom. Following the runway segment, models gathered in front of the temple for a striking finale, which underscored the harmonious blend of fashion and nature.

Collaboration with Japanese Artisans

Dior’s pre-fall 2025 collection also marked a significant collaboration with local Japanese artisans, some of whom have been working with the fashion house since Christian Dior’s era in the 1950s. The show notes highlighted the ongoing partnership with Tatsumura Textile, established in 1954, which is renowned for its exquisite jacquard silk weaving. This collection incorporated the same motifs that Christian Dior chose for his designs more than 70 years prior, reaffirming the brand’s commitment to craftsmanship and heritage.

Chiuri also drew from a cherry blossom print featured in Dior’s S/S 53 collection, working closely with kimono dyeing artisan Tabata Kihachi to reinterpret the design using traditional techniques. Additionally, she collaborated with Tokyo-based milliner Sawa Vaughters to modernize the traditional kasa hat, showcasing a blend of history and contemporary fashion.

Design Highlights: Lavish Fringe and Sculpted Silhouettes

The presentation featured modern interpretations of classic kimonos, showcasing artisanal Japanese prints. The focus was also on sculpted silhouettes, with draped tops that accentuated the waist alongside A-line outerwear. The runway highlighted luxurious textiles and extravagant fringe details in a variety of pieces, including sweeping skirts and column dresses that balanced elegance with wearability.

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