From raw materials to materialised objects of desires, Andrea Cenetiempo captures the delicate process of making the luxurious Dior Gravity Leather collection.
For Dior’s Autumn 2024 Collection, Kim Jones had an idea to craft an exceptional leather material that will result in two iconic variations: its small leather goods and maxi bags.
And when it comes to craftmanship, the house of Dior is one of the few French luxury brands who takes its practice seriously. Using the highest quality of grained calfskin leather and relying on the nature of gravity for embossing, the Dior Gravity leather is born.
Reflecting the French Maison’s savoir-faire of excellence, the collection has a series of novel additions that boasts its unique embossing technique.
Besides being an astounding innovation from the Maison, Dior Gravity’s leather goods are also easily distinguishable by their grained texture, supple effect and embossed Dior Oblique motif.
For colours, muted shared are the selected choice to complement the Autumn 2024 collection. And the items from Dior Gravity come in three shades: beige, black and khaki.
The Making of the Weekender 40 in Dior Gravity Leather
Creating the signature Dior Gravity motif is one thing, assembling the leather to become functional and versatile statement pieces is another.
As seen in Dior savoir-faire images, the process of crafting a Dior Gravity bag requires time and precision.
The Weekender 40 is well known for its functionality and timeless silhouette. Despite being a newer design by Dior, it’s managed to gain a fan base over a short period of time.
With its most iconic look in the Dior Oblique Jacquard motif, the Weekender 40 is reimagined with Dior Gravity leather for the Autumn 2024 Collection.
Hand-application of the silver finish on the Dior embossed signature. Using the power of gravity, the Dior oblique motif is gently embossed on grained calfskin. Dior Gravity leather is crafted through the unique embossing technique. Marking of Dior Gravity leather in preparation for
placement of the Dior metallic signature.Hand placement of the Dior metallic signature and stitching of the Weekender 40 bag. Fixation of the metal pieces of the Weekender 40 bag. Hand assembling of the grained calfskin handle of the Weekender 40 bag. Metal hardware is added to the bag Hand placement of the grained calfskin strap on the
body of the Weekender 40 bagHand-placement and fixation of the metal pieces of the Weekender
40 bag.Fixation of the metal pieces of the Weekender
40 bag
After embossing the grained calfskin, the Dior Gravity leather is carefully handled by the artisans at Dior House. Then, the assembling of the Weekender 40 bag begins.
To honour craftsmanship, authenticity and quality, each process is done by the steady hands of experienced artisans. From the fixation of the metal pieces to the placements of the handles, the bag is intricately assembled to completion. To refine the edges of the leather bag, small amounts of dye are hand-painted.
The Weekender 40 in Dior Gravity leather is presented in two classic colourways: beige and black. Besides this travel bag, the Dior Gravity collection also carries the Weekender 25, along with other designs including the Rider 2.0 backpack and messenger bag, and the flap messenger.
Dior Weekender 40 in beige and black Dior Rider 2.0 backpack in beige and black Dior messenger bag in beige and black
Shoes are also introduced in the collection. The B33 and B27 sneakers both boast the Dior Gravity motifs on their panels. They’re also featured in the beige and black colourways. A series of essentials including a belt and card holder are also included in the collection. They are adorned with the mesmerising graphics of the embossed Dior oblique motif.
With a variety of leather goods present within the Dior Gravity collection, Dior’s heritage is once again celebrated through its exceptional craftsmanship and leatherwork.
For more information about the latest collections by Dior, click here.
WORDS Alison Loh PHOTOS Andrea Cenetiempo, Dior Gravity Savoir Faire EDITORIAL IMAGES Thue Norgaard, Dior Men Autumn 2024 Collection