We are in Rome, where the journey towards the Dior Cruise 2026 begins on a sunny day in late May. This is Maria Grazia’s Rome—she invites us to immerse ourselves in her intimate perspective made of worlds, sensations, and craftsmanship. The Eternal City’s most hidden gems come to life for the occasion. The first stop is the renowned atelier Tirelli Costumi, which has contributed to 17 Academy Awards, working on some of the most famous film productions of all time. The visit to the archives offers a rare opportunity to experience the behind-the-scenes artistry that shapes the final image we usually see—the study, the care, and the dedication each artisan brings to their work. Next, the immersive performance at Teatro della Cometa stands as a powerful testament to the city’s vibrant artistic life in the early 20th century. This space long embodied the avant-garde spirit and innovation of an entire era. The journey continues with the Domus Aurea—a glimpse into Roman history and one of the most iconic residences of ancient Rome, a symbol of its grandeur. The emperor Nero’s villa, located on the Oppian Hill, becomes with its Grotesque decorations one of the main sources of inspiration for Dior Cruise 2026. Finally, we step into the realm of art. The creative universe of Pietro Ruffo unfolds within the iconic Pastificio Cerere, a former pasta factory turned into a thriving creative hub. Ruffo is a prominent figure in the contemporary Roman art scene and beyond, renewing his longstanding collaboration with Maria Grazia.
“Rome is a layering of layers: returning to Rome, for me, means offering a new perspective on the city. And this has allowed me to understand how cultures intertwine, recognise one another, and blend in ways that are unexpected—until you witness them in the tangible reality of things.”
Villa Albani Torlonia is the final stop on our journey—perhaps the most significant and profound—not only for its rich historical and artistic heritage, but also because it was chosen as the location for the Dior Cruise 2026 show. A place shrouded in mystery and rarely open to the public, it is one of the most spectacular settings in the city. The show, composed of 80 looks ranging from prêt-à-porter to Haute Couture, tells a midsummer night’s dream-like story, made even more evocative by the pouring rain that set the scene. A magical atmosphere that weaves together different eras and worlds, highlighting the two purest shades in the most essential palette: black and white, with touches of gold. Everything appears exquisitely sophisticated—embroidery and ruffles, pleats and fringes, lace and corsets. The inspiration drawn from Ancient Rome is unmistakable, with centurion women and gladiator sandals. Identity is explored through diverse silhouettes and lengths, in a visual language that, as Chiuri describes it, speaks of power and self-invention. Shoulders broaden beneath capes, fabrics are enriched with inlays and embellishments, knitwear features three-dimensional holes, and denim is printed with marble-like patterns. A layering of textiles tells the story of the many personalities that inhabit the city of Rome.
Art, cinema, and fashion come together in Maria Grazia Chiuri’s dream—and just like at a 1930s ball, guests stand enchanted, watching the gowns with long trains swirl before them. Back then, the ball was the pinnacle of social life—a celebration that brought together artists and intellectuals, a visionary way of engaging with one another. Matteo Garrone stages a true cinematic piece, Les Fantômes du Cinéma, where 18th-century characters move like ghosts among the models—watching them, imitating them, accompanying them without ever being seen. A metaphor for the allure of Rome, where past and present have always coexisted. Creativity, artistic connections, encounters, set design—all elements that made possible the creation of this spectacle for Dior’s Cruise 2026 collection. Rome and cinema, Rome and history, Rome and art: so many facets of a personality constantly reflecting on the direction of fashion, its purpose, its essence. And here, once again, the conversation was about fashion, craftsmanship, heritage, and above all—people.
