The exterior of the Dior show space was one of mirrored distortion, with 3 white circle entrances at the facade. Upon entering the show space, it was rather futuristic, with circular silver archways that seemed to go on an on into the distance. A rather conceptual show space this was, and anticipation hung in the air –  the brand would be presenting a collection by the design team without a Creative Director after Raf Simons’s departure last season.

The Fall/Winter 16 collection, designed entirely by the atelier, certainly didn’t put the brand to shame.  There was some black, but there was also an abundance of colours and textures (thanks to embroidery) made with luxurious materials like hand-painted dévoré velvets, and recoloured jacquards that were inspired by one of Monsieur Dior’s iconic sketches, the Ice-Cream dress. We also saw that asymmetrical peplum that Raf introduced, and a new interpretation of the iconic Bar suit. In short, it was a rather feminine and fun collection.

And then there are the bags…

There were cross-body sunglasses/spectacle cases which could also double up and serve as your phone pouch, and Wallet on Chain bags were upsized, with multiple compartments, and pockets in contrasting leathers and exotic leathers. And there was the bag which I thought was really quite a darling – a rectangular elongated version of the Lady Dior bag, that came in the Cannage motif, the leather, suede, ponyhair and even embroidered and beaded for evening. The bag also comes with either a long leather strap, or a short detachable thick sporty strap so that the bag rests just under the nook of your arm when carried on the shoulder. I have to say, I really, really like this shape! Three cheers for the design team! You deserve a pat on the back for not just rehashing old silhouettes!

Show space images courtesy of Dior

Runway images via Vogue Runway