Stuart and I were lucky enough to be invited to attend the showing of the Dior Cruise collection at Blenheim Palace this week, the third time that Dior has held a show in this unique location but the first since 1958.
The old world glamour started well before the models hit the runway when we were transported to the country on the Dior Express, raising plenty of eyebrows amongst commuters at Victoria Station.
The only part of the day that wasn’t in the control of the highly efficient Dior team was the weather, and the chilly, wet English summers day added some logistical challenges into the mix. We must have made quite a sight for passing traffic as we queued across the commuter bridge at Charlbury station dressed up to the nines and huddled under umbrellas!
The grey day didn’t detract from the beauty of Blenheim Palace, although it did mean that the brass band were tucked away under cover as they welcomed our arrival.
Inside more surprises awaited, with an exhibition of couture pieces from Christian Dior’s AW collection shown at the venue in 1954,
and a pair of Wallis Simpson’s custom Dior shoes – she had the tiniest feet!
We made our way along the very British fox and hound catwalk to find our seats in the library, and had fun people watching while waiting for the show to start.
The show itself was beautiful, with lots of ornately embellished pieces. It wasn’t a typical cruise collection, missing the bright colours and light fabrics usually associated with cruise, but that seemed completely appropriate given the location and the weather. These are a few of my favourite looks, and I loved the boots!
All too soon it was over, and we moved out to discover a traditional English afternoon tea laid out amongst what looked like a full English country garden. As the denuded croquembouche below shows, it’s clearly a myth that fashion people don’t eat!
Umbrellas at the ready we made our way back to London by more traditional transporation,
with Stuart rating his first Dior show experience an outstanding success. I think Sascha’s going to have to fight a lot harder to join me in the future now that’s he’s seen what he’s been missing! Huge thanks to Dior for allowing us to be part of such a beautiful day.
