Few fashion curators can say that their work has served as a source of inspiration for one of the biggest fashion houses in the world. When Dior's creative director Maria Grazia Chiuri attended the exhibition, Frida Kahlo: Beyond Appearances at the Fashion Museum Palais Galliera in Paris in 2022, she was so enamoured with what she saw that she rang its curator up.
She loved the show, and was truly inspired and moved by it. She called me to collaborate with her on her Dior Cruise Collection 2024, and asked me to help her work with Mexican artisans, says Circe Henestrosa, head of the School of Fashion at Lasalle College of the Arts, and University of the Arts Singapore It wasn't the only time her work had caught Maria's eye. The designer first encountered Circe's work through an exhibition celebrating Frida Kahlo at London's Victoria and Albert Museum in 2018.
The showcase explored how the Mexican artist's experiences with disability, ethnicity and her queer identity had informed her art, life and personal style Fast forward to 2024, and Dior's latest Cruise collection pays tribute to Frida Kahlo, who favoured a three-piece suit as a symbol of intellectual independence. There were also references to the way Tehuana women wore full skirts with a tunic known as the huipil.
A butterfly-shaped black leather corset, elegantly paired with a billowy white shirt and pleated skirt, pays homage to the corsets Kahlo endured due to a bus accident that fractured her spine in three places. The toile de Jouy fabric features a myriad of butterflies amid depictions of Mexican flora and fauna, including parrots, monkeys and strelitzias, reminiscent of the elements often found in Kahlo's paintings.
A CUSTODIAN OF MEXICAN HERITAGE
This story is from the January 2024 edition of Her World Singapore.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the January 2024 edition of Her World Singapore.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
BACK TO BOLD
Say goodbye to low-key and hello to decadence with over-the-top makeup trends. Here's why maximalist beauty is taking over.
THE CORTISOL CONNECTION
Is it possible to undo the ravages of stress while living in a fast-paced world? We dive into how our levels of cortisol - our body's primary stress hormone - can be regulated, and ways to manage its effects.
Air-dry or blow-dry - which is worse for your mane?
Haircare experts share their advice.
Book Club
More than just a vision-enhancing tool, prescription glasses are shaping up to be quite the fashion statement.
How can I use Artificial Intelligence (Al) more effectively at work?
Govtech engagement manager Nicole Lim answers.
BEHIND CLOSED DOORS
Swing by these intimate, hidden bars featuring unique concepts and inventive cocktails.
THE ORANGE PEEL THEORY
Would you break up with your partner over peeled fruit? This latest social media trend might just be the unlikely dealbreaker.
The rise of tradwives
Is this just another fancy name for a stay-at-home mum?
HOW MUCH IS FAMILY PLANNING ACTUALLY COSTING YOU?
It's always prudent to be financially sound and savvy - especially if you're planning to start a family. Find out how you and your partner can map out a financial plan that is realistic, based on advice from parents and experts.
IN THE THICK OF ACTION
Doctor by day, champion for change by night: Dr June Goh-Rin is a whirlwind of energy. This multi-hyphenate doctor, advocate and former president of the Singapore Council of Women's Organisations (SCWO) tackles every challenge whether at work or advocating for women's issues - head-on.