Maria Grazia Chiuri Finds Common Ground in Marrakesh for Dior

Urban Luxe
December 4, 2019

Maria Grazia Chiuri sought to create a cultural conversation with their Spring Summer 2020 show entitled “Common Ground” in Marrakesh. The once hedonistic playground of former Dior couturier Yves Saint Laurent was where the designer decided to present her collection at El Badi Palace. The designer consulted anthropologist, Anne Grosfilley throughout the entire collection and the text "Racism Explained to My Daughter" by Tahar Ben was a pivotal influence for the show.

THE COLLABORATIONS

Maria Grazia Churri worked with collaborators to promote cultural appreciation and emphasize the importance of local craftsmanship. Wax print fabrics were produced in collaboration with Uniwax. The opening look- a beige wool coat was hand painted by the women of the Anti Atlas region. Chiuri invited 2016 LVMH Young Designer Prize Winner Grace Wales Bonner as well as artist Mickalene Thomas to reimagine the Bar Jacket. The designer also worked with Pathe ‘O to create a shirt dedicated to Nelson Mandella.

To highlight the rich complexity and meticulous craft that go into the fabric, Maria Grazia Chiuri teamed with Uniwax – one of the few remaining manufacturers of the fabric using traditional methods, actively supporting African fashion. She collaborated as well with African designer Pathé Ouédraogo, known as Pathé’O, who contributed a shirt designed exclusively for the show in tribute to Nelson Mandela. Grace Wales Bonner, winner of the 2016 LVMH Prize, and African-American painter Mickalene Thomas also contributed their visions to the collection, a celebration of cultural plurality.
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