The Lady Dior handbag, an enduring icon of fashion, celebrates its legacy with a fresh twist as ten artists reinterpret its design for the tenth edition of the Dior Lady Art initiative. Originally designed by Gianfranco Ferré in 1995, the bag was inspired by Princess Diana, who became a prominent ambassador for the brand, famously carrying it during public appearances.
The distinctive features of the Lady Dior include its structured square design, rounded handles, and quilted “cannage” stitching, which echoes the Napoleon III chairs that adorned Dior’s couture shows. The bag quickly gained popularity, particularly after Diana wore it during her visit to Paris for an exhibition of works by Paul Cézanne. Following her endorsement, the bag was renamed the Lady Dior and has remained a fashionable staple ever since.
As part of its ongoing evolution, Dior has invited contemporary artists to reinterpret the Lady Dior. This year’s initiative showcases the work of ten creatives, each offering a unique vision that reflects their artistic style.
Artists Bring New Life to a Timeless Classic
Among the artists participating in this project is Inès, a Paris-based creator known for her vibrant and instinctive approach. She has designed three bags for the initiative, which she describes as joyful and exuberant. “As a child, I watched my grandmother assemble fabrics with infinite patience,” Inès recalls. Her designs feature an assemblage of faces, flowers, suns, and snakes, all crafted from soft, quilted satin. She aims to evoke a sense of friendliness and warmth, stating, “This bag could well be the evening companion of David Bowie or Niki de Saint Phalle.”
Another featured artist, Marc Quinn, is celebrated for his multidisciplinary approach and exploration of the human body through unconventional materials. His notable works include the sculpture “Alison Lapper Pregnant,” displayed in Trafalgar Square from 2005 to 2007. Reflecting on his reinterpretation of the Lady Dior, Quinn emphasizes the evolution of his artistic practice. “The new bags are unlike the first collection. They are more three-dimensional and sculptural,” he explains. Quinn has incorporated artificial intelligence into his designs, highlighting a shift in technology and materials over the past decade.
A Fusion of Artistry and Fashion
The third artist, Sophia, originally from São Paulo and now based in London, brings a bold visual style to her four distinctive bags. Sophia’s work is characterized by vibrant colors and textures, and she focuses on the harmonious coexistence of humans and nature. Each bag reflects her artistic ethos, using materials such as pearls, embossed leather, and abstract paintings printed on the linings. “We engaged deeply with the visual and structural language of my paintings,” she shares, emphasizing the thoughtful integration of her artistic elements into the design of the Lady Dior.
The Dior Lady Art #10 collection is available for purchase at select Dior boutiques, allowing fashion enthusiasts to celebrate both the history and the modern reinterpretations of this iconic handbag. With each artist infusing their unique vision into the Lady Dior, the bag continues to evolve, cementing its status as a canvas for creativity.
For those interested in more insights, the latest issue of HELLO! magazine features a comprehensive interview with the artists and explores their contributions to this iconic project. The magazine is set to release on December 10, 2023, in the UK, and subscriptions are available for weekly delivery.
