The activity of traveling is a magnificent human pursuit. When a trip is booked for the purpose of exploration and entertainment, the possibilities are endless. However, the result of being exposed to different cultures and deepening one's knowledge is almost guaranteed.
For creative individuals in general, and specifically within our field of interest, designers consider travel as the material equivalent of deep research, but with even more vitality and personal experiential immersion. Travel is a source of renewed ideas and an inspiration for the experience itself, providing evolving impressions of every twist and turn of the surrounding environment, becoming a sensory reflection of it.
It is a journey through nature, prominent landmarks, heritage, and rich culture, which is then translated into a collection adorned with all those elements like beautiful ornaments. It transforms from observing the inspiring collection to a journey in itself for all eyes that watch or anticipate.
Let's take a look at some of the prominent collections and fashion shows derived from overseas trips.
Christian Dior Spring/Summer 2004 Haute Couture
Former Creative Director of Dior, designer John Galliano, renowned for his theatrical fashion shows and stunning collections depicted dramatically through imagination, elevated the sensibility of each look and endowed them with their own expressive personality.
For Dior's Spring 2004 Haute Couture collection, designer John Galliano presented one of the most unforgettable collections during his tenure at Dior. He mentioned that his inspiration came from his trip to Egypt, where his imagination and mind absorbed elements from the ancient history of the pharaohs, the pyramids, and the golden sand dunes of its deserts.
The first look walked the runway, and it was evident in that moment that a historical fashion moment was being written by the model's steps. In Galliano's era, fashion models were directed to add life and expression to their steps on the runway, an important detail that made the golden collection even more vibrant.
Enormous exaggerated sleeves, faces adorned with theatrical makeup, and a massive empire headpiece… This is how the model appeared, starting the show with a truly unforgettable look. It was a lesson in reinterpreting the pharaohs through the lens of fashion.
Christian Dior Fall/Winter 2006 Haute Couture
We notice the repetitive pattern of this legendary designer, as he drew inspiration for this collection from one of his research trips to Venice and Tuscany, which clearly revived his passion for the art of the Renaissance, directly inspired by the intricately articulated pieces of armor, blending them with the feminine silhouettes synonymous with Dior, with the intensity and protection of armor.
An imaginative and visual fusion between historical elements and the blurring of lines between menswear and womenswear. With each look that graced the runway, imaginary drawn images of medieval warriors from the past, such as Joan of Arc, Siouxsee Sioux, and Botticelli, were evoked.
As with any epic historical tale with intertwined intriguing events, rigid metals and intricate feminine embroidery were merged together to create this unforgettable collection.
Zuhair Murad Spring/Summer 2020 Haute Couture
Lebanese fashion designer Zuhair Murad is one of the founding designers of mesmerizing and glamorous elegance, with countless collections of extravagantly embellished and embroidered evening wear. His haute couture house is revered as one of the most famous fashion houses in the Middle East as much as it is internationally renowned.
In a retrospective look at Murad's collections, admiration accelerates in parallel with the increasing desire to wear his captivating creations and own a Zuhair Murad haute couture dress, which often possesses the same radiance and weight reminiscent of precious jewels kept in their precious box.
