Dior Men’s Summer 2025 collection, unveiled today at Paris Fashion Week, is more than just a fashion statement; it is a celebration of the often forgotten potential found in menswear. Under the helm of Kim Jones, Dior’s menswear creative director, the collection emerges as a defining moment for Paris Fashion Week, emphatically proclaiming that menswear deserves as much attention, creativity, and innovation as any womenswear or even haute couture line.
Kim Jones, known for his meticulous approach and deep respect for the craft, has once again redefined the parameters of menswear. His collections are not just designed; they are painstakingly sculpted with the precision of a ceramist—fitting, as this season’s inspiration comes from South African ceramicist Hylton Nel. The motifs and figuration from Nel’s work are seamlessly woven into the fabric of the collection, exemplifying a sophisticated blend of art and attire that speaks to a well-lived life, echoing the textures and shapes of Nel’s ceramics.
This collection, perhaps without any intention by Kim, is showing the result of truly dedicating time and effort to menswear. Jones demonstrates that menswear should not be an afterthought nor the understudy of a fashion brand. Rather, it should be a full expression of artistry and craftsmanship. This approach is evident as Jones melds men’s workwear with elements from women’s haute couture archives, a bold move that breathes new life into the garments and infuses them with historical depth and contemporary relevance.
The utility of traditional men’s workwear is elevated through luxurious materials and intricate craftsmanship, demonstrating how everyday items can gain longevity and legacy through thoughtful design. The silhouettes of the collection are both sculptural and practical, borrowing from the language of ceramics in their form and finishings. This duality ensures that each piece is not only aesthetically pleasing but also robust and functional.
The influence of archival haute couture is most startlingly realized in the resurrection of an unrealized Yves Saint-Laurent sketch for a coat from the autumn-winter 1958 season. By bringing this sketch to life, Jones does more than pay homage; he bridges the gap between past and present, offering a fresh perspective on tailoring. The rounded volumes and sculptured lines lend a sensuous finish to garments that might otherwise be straightforward, enhancing the overall tactile experience of the collection. (Between 1958 and 1960, Yves Saint Laurent designed six collections for Dior).
Accessories and footwear also receive significant attention, blending playful elements with practicality. The transformation of traditional clogs into enclosed shoes and boots exemplifies the collection’s innovative spirit, utilizing materials like beech wood and calf leather to redefine a commonly overlooked item. Similarly, the iconic Dior Saddle bag is reimagined, softening its construction to adapt its curvilinear contours to new formats.
Moreover, the collection’s reach extends beyond Paris, touching on global sensibilities without imposing a hierarchy. Stephen Jones brings for the collection a collaboration with Earth Age and local South African craftspeople. Who produced hand-crocheted cloche hats embellished with ceramic beads in Paris reflects a harmonious balance between global and local craftsmanship, celebrating diverse artisanal traditions.
Kim Jones’ Summer 2025 runway at Paris Fashion Week is an important moment for menswear. At a time when many menswear fashion weeks seem to falter or fold, Dior’s presentation under Jones’ guidance offers a compelling argument for their continued relevance. It calls upon other brands to recognize the value and vast potential within menswear, urging them to invest similar levels of creativity and passion into their collections. Dior Men’s show is not just a highlight of Paris Fashion Week; it is also its defining moment.
Discover all the looks in our gallery from Dior Men’s Summer 2025:
Watch the Dior Men’s Summer 2025 Runway video:
Kim Jones never fails in my eyes! And i love the collaboration with Hylton Nel, I wouldnt ever know how it could connect to Dior Men but this is looks beautiful.