It was in 2016 that Maria Grazia Chiuri assumed the reins at Dior, instantly making a splash with her debut Spring/Summer 2017 collection. Among embroidered tulle gowns and structured fencing jackets, one look stood out (and went viral): a plain white T-shirt stamped with the phrase “We Should All Be Feminists.” Inspired by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s now-iconic TED Talk and essay, the tee quickly became a cultural flashpoint, cementing Chiuri’s intention to do more than just design beautiful clothes—she was here to shift the conversation.
That message of empowerment wasn’t a one-season wonder. Throughout her nine-year tenure, Chiuri used Dior’s global platform to spotlight women artists, artisans, and changemakers. Whether it was Judy Chicago’s massive “feminist temple” installation at couture week or spotlighting female Indian artisans in Mumbai, Chiuri consistently merged creativity with advocacy. Her shows were often a collaboration not just with set designers and stylists, but with historians, writers, and activists. Under her leadership, Dior became a vehicle for modern storytelling, where craft met cause. During her time at Dior, the brand’s couture sales skyrocketed, and its aesthetic shifted into something instantly recognizable: romantic yet razor-sharp, unapologetically feminine, but with grit.
Chiuri’s final bow came earlier this week in Rome, her hometown, with the unveiling of the Dior Cruise 2026 collection at the historic Villa Albani. Against a backdrop of Roman columns and classical art, she presented a collection that felt poetic and powerful featuring white lace gowns, sculptural tuxedos, and nods to ancient gladiator silhouettes. The show’s all-white palette for women (black for men) felt symbolic, like a clean slate. Now we know why.
Today, Dior confirmed that Chiuri will be stepping down from her role, closing a significant chapter in the house’s modern history. But if anyone thinks she’s slowing down, think again. Chiuri has already begun work on restoring Rome’s Teatro della Cometa, a historic theatre she’s reviving with her daughter, Rachele Regini. From couture to culture, her next act promises to be as impactful as the last.
ALSO READ: MAKE EID AL-ADHA EXTRA SPECIAL FOR HER WITH THESE CAREFULLY-CURATED GIFTS.
