The Dior Cruise Show Took Us on a Literal and Figurative Journey to Marrakech

Updated on May 5, 2019 at 9:00 AM

The biggest names in the fashion industry took a trip to Morocco this week, when Maria Grazia Chiuri invited guests to the incredible Palais El Badi in Marrakech for the Dior Cruise 2020 show. The atmospheric grounds of the ancient palace were transformed into a runway, as models walked around the courtyard pool, which was lit with torches and bonfires to light up the night for the evening show. With the likes of Lupita Nyong'o, Jessica Alba, and Karlie Kloss in the front row, the designer presented a collection that traveled across continents, paying homage to pan-African craftsmanship and traditions, fusing them with heritage Dior hallmarks and new ideas.

The fashion house called on experts in African fashion and design to ensure this was a show that focused on cultural appreciation, not cultural appropriation. French anthropologist Anne Grosfilley assisted the designer as she researched and developed the collection, introducing her to some of the collaborators who helped with elements like the wax prints. Keep reading for all you need to know about the show.

The Show Took Place at the El Badi Palace in Marrakech, Morocco

Lupita Nyong'o Sat in the Front Row

Lupita wore a Dior Fall-Winter 2019-2020 black silk bodysuit with embroidered black tulle skirt, a Dior Saddle bag in black leather, a Dior black leather Saddle belt, and Dior shoes.

Jessica Alba Also Attended

Jessica wore a Dior Fall 2019 printed tulle bodysuit with printed tulle skirt and Dior shoes.

Shailene Woodley Was Among the Glamorous Guests

Shailene wore a Dior Spring-Summer 2019 printed cotton voile long dress, a Dior blue leather clutch, and Dior shoes.

Karlie Kloss Skipped the Runway and Sat in the Front Row Instead

Karlie wore a Dior Fall 2019 black silk dress, a Dior belt, a Lady Dior black leather bag, and Dior shoes.

The Show Was as Glamorous as You'd Expect

With Plenty of Rich, Embellished Gowns

Models Wore All Manner of Intricate Gowns

But They Also Sported Some More Utility-Inspired Pieces

Safari Suiting Made an Appearance, Too

The Venue Definitely Provided Ample Inspiration

Evening Gowns Were Rich With Detail and Embellishment

There Were Even Some Classic Dior References, Like This Nod to the New Look

The Short Dresses Were No Less Intricate

Wax Fabrics Were a Big Part of the Collection

Print Was Everywhere, on Skirts, Dresses, and Capes

Tarot Provided Inspiration For Some Designs

Maria Grazia Chiuri Called on Experts to Help Her With the Africa-Inspired Elements

Dior's creative director collaborated with Grace Wales Bonner, Mickalene Thomas, and Pathé Ouédraogo on various elements of the collection. Uniwax, which uses traditional methods of wax printing, was involved in developing the prints. Milliner Stephen Jones collaborated with Martine Henry and Daniella Osemadewa on headpieces.