Christian Dior needs no introduction. His French fashion house has been held in the highest esteem for nearly 70 years. A man who does need some introduction, however, is Raf Simons.
In Dior and I, Raf Simons has to deliver his first ever haute couture collection as Creative Director for Dior, and this documentary gifts us with a backstage perspective on this magnificent and inspiring process.
By Keeva Stratton
In an unusually short eight week timespan, Simons is tasked with living up to the Dior legend, while adding the first page to his chapter as the lead Dior designer. It’s a lot of stress for Simons, but a rare treat for fashion lovers, to be able to draw back the curtain and discover what goes into not only designing but creating a collection that cannot be less than iconic.
The pressure is on.
Art is what inspires Simons; his designs are modern and bold. Having excelled with ready-to-wear lines, he must now discover how his style will work with such a traditionally feminine label, all while navigating the crazy timelines and intricate human craftsmanship that must be allowed for to produce haute couture garments.
While his vision and leadership certainly exert a magnetic pull, for the viewer the real reward comes from getting to know the ateliers and the incredibly talented seamstresses and tailors who bring the vision to life.
For me, watching this documentary is akin to living a childhood dream—getting a first hand taste of the energy, the artistry and the magic that sees sketches come to life through hand-beaded and stitched garments of the highest quality.
Dior and I invites us to revel unabashedly in fashion voyeurism. It offers a rare and exquisite look into a world typically reserved for a very privileged and talented few. What a treat. From the fabrics to the beading, the sketches to the final show, this is a documentary that celebrates the passion of artistic creation.
If you’ve ever dreamed of one day living the life of a Paris-based fashion designer—or if, like me, you just enjoy perusing the very beautiful designs on sale at their high-end stores—be sure to indulge your fantasies with this very special film. Enjoy!
Directed by: Frederic Tcheng
Starring: Raf Simons
Runtime: 89 mins
Release Date: 26 March
Reviewer rating: 4/5