A statement of intent from newly appointed artistic director Kim Jones, the Summer 2019 collection was both a return to heritage and an escape from tradition. On January 30, a select group of Sydneysiders was able to experience the vision of Jones and the future of Dior.

Last June, in Paris, the collection was presented to the world for the first time. Revolving around a giant KAWS BFF figure, the looks were an homage to the founder of the fashion house, Christian Dior. The use of floral imagery and the Toile de Jouy motif referenced the classic designs and passions of Mr Dior and the original maison.

Simultaneously, the collection is inherently contemporary. Jones has stated that the menswear of the season is not feminine, but romantic, with rounded shoulders and softer shapes. Elements of street style are also incorporated into the couture, suggesting that Jones is not one to be beholden to others’ views of what a label such as Dior should be.

Attendees to Dior’s Castlereagh Street boutique on Wednesday had taken these styling choices to heart. The Dior x KAWS cross body bag was worn over rose-coloured suits, while black lace was combined with black leather. The raw concrete finish and black clothes stands in the pop up store were contrasted with the neoclassical interiors of the flagship location on the corner with King Street, a line of the KAWS bee detail linking the two.

At the menswear pop up the Dior x KAWS capsule collection was the focus of the display. Welcomed by a slightly smaller version of the BFF figure, reclined after six months of travelling the globe with this collection, the playful yet elegant tone continued throughout. Here to stay until March 31, the collection is a sign of where modern couture is headed.