Raf Simons’ did not hold back with Dior’s latest Haute Couture Spring 2015 line. Blending the aesthetics of several decades and curating the best and most architecturally-appealing deigns of each, he managed to spectacularly cumulate a collection of updated mid-century looks in one of his most ambitious shows yet. On a two-story backdrop of mirrored scaffolding and bubble gum-pink carpeting, models walked out in vinyl boots parading looks from the ‘50s, ‘60s and ‘70s. Colors clashed, prints ranged from psychedelic neon to pastel floral and silhouettes ran from the very sleek to those of voluminous excess.
It was simultaneously cohesive and haphazard—strapless, ‘50s tea party dresses came down the runway after streamlined silhouettes—the two seemingly unconnected and exclusive of one another. Other looks combined house coats and sparkling mod dresses or used ‘70s stripes on retro red carpet gowns. It was a disproportionate collection of mismatched lengths, colors, prints and shapes that somehow—almost miraculously—worked.
While the blended designs demonstrated artistic daring and a flash of the unexpected after a few particularly dull winter collections, some pieces pushed the envelope rather far. Everything was reimagined with a modern eye, but a line of psychedelic-print suits (that were reminiscent of Emilio Pucci’s designs) may be better fitting to accent scarves and the back of our mothers’ closets. That isn’t to say the most flamboyant of fashion mavens won’t flock to them in droves. Considering their superfluous design and the potentially-iconic statement print, they’re sure to be best sellers.
