The recent Paris Olympics may be over, but their spirit of athleticism is vividly present in Maria Grazia Chiuri’s Dior Spring/Summer 2025 collection. Chiuri, who has been known to weave athletic elements into her designs since her 2016 debut for Dior, took a bold step further this season.
The collection was a modern take on the iconic “Amazon” look, first introduced by Christian Dior in 1951. Models walked the runway in sleek bodysuits and knee-high gaiters, their looks reflecting the practicality of warriors with a distinctly contemporary feel. The show opened with three models carrying soft bags reminiscent of quivers, setting the tone for a collection that celebrated female power and athleticism.
Chiuri’s fascination with sportswear, a recurring theme in her work, was evident throughout the collection. Monochromatic ensembles were punctuated with bold graphic checkerboard patterns and dynamic go-faster stripes, adding a sense of movement and energy to the designs. A seven-stripe motif inspired by a 1970s Op Art-style logo was a recurring element, appearing on everything from track pants and shorts to mesh dresses and biker jackets. The sporty detail even found its way into more formal pieces, such as a gray wool pantsuit and a double-faced wool cape, demonstrating Chiuri’s ability to seamlessly blend athletic and sophisticated elements.
The collection paid homage to Marc Bohan, Dior’s Creative director in the 1960s and 1970s, who was one of the first to incorporate sportswear into couture. Chiuri was inspired by Bohan’s innovative designs, such as a 1964 parka from the Dior Sport line, and reimagined them for a modern audience. She echoed Bohan’s groundbreaking approach by fusing couture elegance with the relaxed feel of athleisure. Dresses and jackets with asymmetrical necklines exuded effortless chic, while loose track pants added an urban edge to the brand’s classic Bar jacket. Eveningwear also featured jersey, with stretchy versions of Chiuri’s signature goddess gowns.
With this collection, Dior, a premium partner of the recent Paris Olympics, is clearly capitalizing on the growing demand for stylish sportswear. The Games, which achieved full gender parity for the first time, gave unprecedented visibility to female athletes, further cementing the link between athleticism and femininity.
©Photo: Dior