Christian Dior turned up at India Gate with an entourage, an orchestra and a collection out of this world. The intricacy of the Indian stitching, crocheting and embroidery, the delicacy of the silks and linens, the pops of color, the sequins jackets and mini dresses, the stunning multi color beaded pants weighing the waify models down all so stunning.
The Magnificence Of Christian Dior At India Gate
The down playing of the models themselves. With so many stunning Indian women all over the world, Dior’s choice of models was to ensure their captivating beauty didn’t take away from the garments so they chose a lesser stunning woman.
It was all very tactical and strategically orchestrated with the lavish backdrop of India Gate and the House Of Parliament lit up in beams of red.
The History Of India And France
The history of India and France is a long tale that dates back hundreds of years.
Indian soldiers have defended France’s borders putting their own lives on the line. And French Fashion powerhouses have relied on India for not only safety, but whimsical inspiration, fabric, intricate and delicate touches of age old stitching and needlework and textiles that can only be found in this part of the world.
India and France have been collaborating for decades.
Colonial Cultural Exchange – During the colonial era, there was a cultural exchange between India and France, particularly in Pondicherry, the French colony in India. This exchange seamlessly blended French and Indian elements in architecture, cuisine, and daily life.
Culinary Influences – The French and Indian cuisines have influenced each other. Indian spices and flavors have become integral to some French dishes, while French culinary techniques have found a place in upscale Indian cuisine.
Philosophical and Intellectual Influences – French intellectuals and writers, especially during the Enlightenment era during the late 17th and 18th centuries, were fascinated by Indian philosophy and literature. Famous French thinkers like Voltaire and Rousseau were heavily drawn to concepts from Indian thought, such as Hinduism and Buddhism.
Literary Connections – All sorts of Indian literature, including works by authors like Rabindranath Tagore, has been translated into French, contributing to a better understanding of Indian literary traditions in France. Likewise, French literature has found readership in India.
Language and Education – French is taught and learned in India, and vice versa. Language and education play a significant role in cultural exchange, fostering a deeper understanding of each other’s literature, philosophy, and thought.
India’s Unending Contribution To Global Fashion Powerhouses
While it’s not spoken of a lot India has played a heavy hand in the success of many fashion powerhouses with its decades long contributions of out of this world textiles and intricate detailing, beadwork, fabrications, style and fashion influence that can only be found in this part of the world.
- Artistic Exchanges:
- The rich artistic traditions of India, including classical dance, music, and visual arts, have been appreciated and studied by the French. Indian classical dance forms, in particular, have gained popularity in France.
- Cultural Festivals and Events:
- Cultural festivals and events are organized to celebrate the shared heritage between the two nations. These events showcase various aspects of Indian and French culture, fostering mutual understanding and appreciation.
- Influence on Fashion:
- The vibrant textiles and traditional clothing of India have influenced French fashion. Indian fabrics, designs, and motifs have found a place in the global fashion scene, including in French haute couture.
- Cinema and Arts:
- Indian cinema, particularly Bollywood, has gained popularity in France. Film festivals, screenings, and collaborations between filmmakers from both countries have contributed to a cultural exchange in the realm of cinema. Additionally, Indian contemporary art has found a place in the international art scene, including in French galleries.
- Contemporary Collaborations:
- Still today, in the modern era, artists, writers, filmmakers, and cultural institutions in both countries continue collaborating. These collaborations contribute to a dynamic and evolving cultural relationship.
The cultural history of India and France is marked by a mutual fascination with each other’s traditions, a blending of influences, and ongoing collaborations that contribute to the richness and diversity of both nations’ cultural landscapes.
So Christian Dior at India Gates seems like the perfect backdrop for the collection.
Check it out below –
