Amidst the grandeur of Dior’s fall-winter collection showcased on the Parisian runway, attention was drawn to more than just haute couture. Intricately crafted cane sculptures, resembling elaborate armor, took center stage, captivating the audience with their striking presence. These captivating structures are the creations of Mumbai-based artist Shakuntala Kulkarni, whose work added an unparalleled depth to Dior’s A/W 2024 showcase.
Under the visionary direction of Creative Director Maria Grazia Chiuri, Dior’s latest collection seamlessly married the empowerment of contemporary women with the timeless allure of the 1960s. From neatly belted trench coats to flared miniskirts, each piece exuded a unique blend of sophistication and audacity. The runway also featured fringe dresses adorned with intricate beadwork, trim jackets, and an array of handbags, sunglasses, and shoes, including boots, to complete the ensemble.
What truly elevated the spectacle was the backdrop of Shakuntala’s cane frame sculptures, adding a profound dimension to the presentation. Maria Grazia Chiuri took to Instagram to express her admiration for Shakuntala’s artistry and shed light on the inspiration behind the collaboration. She remarked, “I was particularly fascinated by these armours – they defend the female body while caging it, hindering its freedom. I am very happy to have had the opportunity to collaborate with @shakuntala.kulkarni for the installation hosting today’s @dior Autumn Winter 2025 show.”
With her distinctive artistic vision and innovative approach, Shakuntala Kulkarni has left an indelible mark on the world of fashion, enriching Dior’s runway with her captivating sculptures and contributing to a memorable and thought-provoking showcase.
