Dior showed its 2025 cruise collection in Scotland

Dior immersed itself in the traditions of Scotland and its rebellious history late the night before, presenting a “cruising” 2025 collection with punk-inspired tartan, ringlets and magical evening gowns.

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Haute couture is increasingly taking to the catwalk, showcasing the latest creations as part of “cruises” to picturesque destinations around the world. After Athens, Seville and Mexico City, this year Dior settled at the historic Drummond Castle near Crieff in Perthshire, central Scotland. The French brand's muses Jennifer Lawrence, Anya Taylor-Joy, Rosamund Pike and Laetitia Casta, as well as an army of waiters in elegant black kilts were among the spectators, who were seated in the front row against the background of the castle's gardens. Instead of a catwalk, a stone staircase led directly from the castle, where the models descended to the sound of bagpipes to the audience and then disappeared behind manicured hedges and trees.

The looks created by creative director Maria Grazia Chiuri were reminiscent of warriors with long braids behind their backs, dressed in leather, chain mail or flashy “body armor”. Magic lace collars, capes, heavy corduroy ball gowns and pearl-trimmed corsets were everywhere. Some models were combined with skirts revealing high boots, kilts, shorts, cardigans, high socks and punk necklaces - leather and silver chokers. Tartan - Scotland's most famous print - was the main theme of the collection and was presented in different variations: purple, gold and bright red, which gave the collection a touch of grunge. French actress Camille Cotten noted that Chiuri wove tartan and punk culture “with tremendous grace.” “It was magnificent,” she admitted. - The high art of sewing”.

Maria Grazia's collections are often inspired by strong female characters. The Perthshire fashion show was no exception. Its heroine, who inspired the designer's models, was Mary Stuart, Queen of Scots. Considered heir to the British throne, she spent nearly 20 years in confinement before going to her execution in 1587. “She spent decades embroidering, which gave her comfort and evoked memories, but also expressed her during her 19-year incarceration,” Currie wrote.

As a result, Scottish emblems, such as the unicorn and the thistle, were incorporated into the collection. Dior, part of the LVMH group of luxury brands, has enlisted the help of local companies and designers. For example, Le Kilt owner and founder Samantha McCaw to reimagine the Scottish closet. The show also paid homage to Christian Dior and his love of Scotland and its traditions. Almost 70 years ago, he organized a stunning fashion show at the nearby Gleneagles Hotel, followed by a dinner party and dance attended by the cream of local society at the time.

Well, the current Scots were unabashedly excited about the show. “To get Dior, the iconic French fashion house, to Perthshire is to draw the world's attention to our region,” Carolyn Warburton, head of the VisitScotland tour company, told journalists.