Rome, mythology and cinema inspire Dior Cruise 2026 collection

The gardens of the Villa Albani Torlonia provided an idyllic backdrop for the haute couture and ready-to-wear creations imagined by Maria Grazia Chiuri. The Creative Director of Dior women’s lines shared her love story with her native Rome and a history dappled with images from cinema, theater, art and fashion.  

The magical ball of the Cruise collection swirled through the garden paths, revolving around white in a variety of materials. The men’s wardrobe was a special guest, featuring vests and tailcoats, accompanied by long, full skirts. Military jackets take on fresh elegance with black edges. Like a black and white film, each contrast had striking effect. Whimsically masked characters spark the imagination in flowing capes. 

Floral lace caresses the skin, veiling and revealing the silhouettes. Undergarments rise to the surface. Cascading ruffles and ethereal petals follow dotted tulle and intricate embroidery to grace these nymphs. With the presence of velvet, Maria Grazia Chiuri pays a subtle homage to the Fontana sisters, whose designs were featured in numerous films, notably for Anita Ekberg in Fellini’s La Dolce Vita. The final look, a trompe-l’œil gladiator armor dress, spotlights feminine power and the force of creation.   

In this farandole, each of creations exists both together and separately, summoning dreams, poetry and magic. A short film by Matteo Garrone entitled Les Fantômes du Cinéma (“The Ghosts of Cinema”) – available for streaming on the Dior website – accompanied this captivating Cruise collection.