It’s Kim Jones’ 60th show at Dior. And he unveiled yet another awe-inspiring line-up for the Summer 2025 Men’s collection. South African artist Hylton Nel’s five giant cat sculptures were prominently featured, influencing the collection’s designs.
Mr. Jones drew inspiration from Mr. Nel’s beloved animal renderings, which were also featured in punchily colored socks.
Opening the show, the first model held an original sculpture from Mr. Nel, personally from Mr. Jones’ collection, highlighting the fusion of art and fashion.
Tailoring and outerwear favor rounded forms that complement the body’s movement with ethereal cuts. Clogs crafted from premium materials like beech wood and calf leather seamlessly transform into both rugged biker boots and refined derbys.
Inspired by a Yves Saint-Laurent piece from Fall-Winter 1960, a scarf collar motif threads through the collection.
The iconic Saddle bag, a quintessential part of Dior style for over 25 years, receives a softer touch with curvaceous contours.
Cloche hats, a collaboration between the milliner Stephen Jones and Earth Age in Cape Town, inject a playful essence into the silhouettes. Hand-crocheted by local South African artisans, these hats feature ceramic bead embellishments applied in Paris.
Dior had previously collaborated with the milliner for his Fall 2021 collection as well. This fusion of craftsmanship embodies the collective spirit and artisanal excellence that characterize Dior.
In a commitment to excellence, almost 600 hours were required to complete a hand beading embroidery work on a Delft-inspired jacket, again inspired by Mr. Nel’s ceramics. Delft is Dutch earthenware with signature blue and white florals on it. The designer reported that details such as this are the objects of intensely competitive desire amongst the house’s most dedicated customers.
Bold sculptures, intricate artistic elements, and exceptional artisanal craftsmanship shown in this collection are what Dior stands for.
