John Galliano-designed Dior Saddle bag revived by Maria Grazia Chiuri

 

An instant cult item since its first appearance on the spring-summer 2000 ready-to-wear runway, the Saddle bag, designed in homage to equestrianism, was reinterpreted by Maria Grazia Chiuri for the autumn-winter 2018-2019 collection. Monochrome, with fringing or in patchwork, discover the new versions of this House icon in the arms of the heroines of the new Dior campaign.

 

18 years ago, luxury house Dior was the realm of Artistic Director John Galliano who launched iconic items such as the Dior equestrian-themed bag. Part of Dior Spring-Summer 2000 ready-to-wear collection, Dior Saddle bag rapidly became very popular among celebrities of that era.

In referencing the world of equestrianism and with a form alluding to a horse’s saddle decorated with a gilt ‘D’ that nods to a stirrup, the iconic ‘Saddle’ bag is reinterpreted by the present Artistic Director Maria Grazia Chiuri for the Dior Autumn-Winter 2018-2019 collection.

“I thought this collection would be an opportunity to revive its timeless beauty,” says the Italian fashion designer. “I consider this icon of the house’s recent history the perfect accessory to deal with this battle that is daily life.”

“Indeed, the saddle bag is a bag that is worn in exactly the same way as a shirt or jacket, and it’s so comfortable to wear with its long strap that you almost forget it’s there. The saddle bag is also practical because it allows you to carry everything you need with you.

“It’s for this reason that I wanted it larger and more robust, but also very colorful, embroidered or with beaded fringe because, like a chameleon, it adapts to all situations.”

 

Instantly recognizable, its horse’s saddle form has been revisited by Maria Grazia Chiuri in two formats and is available in different colors and materials that echo the show’s inspiration: May ’68, a time of intense creative ferment. She designed two patchwork styles, a floral one with seventies accents, and the other in denim featuring the inscriptions Peace and Love Dior.

It also comes with nine pieces of fine beading, entirely done by hand following designs in bright and contrasting colors, as well as in Dior Oblique canvas and in monochrome leather. Paired with a new ethnic- inspired strap, decorated with fringing and metal elements, it can now be worn cross-body to offer freedom of movement with a hands-free empowered allure.