This weekend in New York, the work of Dior’s seven previous creative directors will come together in a fashion and photography exhibition celebrating the house’s illustrious couture legacy. For the event, Dior opened its archive to legendary fashion editor Carine Roitfeld, who selected standout pieces from the house’s 80-plus-year history to be photographed by Brigitte Niedermair. The UBS House of Craft x Dior exhibition marks the first time couture creations by each of Dior’s creative directors will be brought together and captured for a single show.

In the lead-up to the opening, we spoke with Roitfeld about the genesis of the project, how she selected the pieces, and what surprised her most while exploring Dior’s expansive archive.

What were the core Dior sensibilities you began with when looking through the House’s incredible history?
Carine Roitfeld: When looking through Dior’s history, I began with the founding principles set by Monsieur Dior: a celebration of femininity, elegance, and structure. Look at the New Look silhouette, with its cinched waist and full skirt: it became a lasting symbol of the house. Across decades, each creative director has reinterpreted these codes while preserving Dior’s timeless identity and devotion to craftsmanship. It’s an amazing homage to Monsieur Dior’s vision and legacy.

What throughlines did you notice between the designers that you perhaps hadn’t thought about previously?
CR: I had the chance to rediscover the work of Marc Bohan, whom I admittedly knew very little about, despite the fact that he remains the longest-serving creative director in Dior’s history (28 years, can you imagine!). I was truly struck by the incredible modernity of his designs. Some looks – like a leopard-print ensemble – felt as though they could have come straight from a boutique this season.

Are there any key looks or eras that stand out to you?
CR: One of my favourites is actually the leopard look by Marc Bohan I mentioned earlier – I absolutely love it. There’s also a striking black and pink dress inspired by Jackson Pollock and still designed by Marc Bohan, worn in the photos by Ella Richards, that feels incredibly modern. Both pieces are perfect examples of how ahead of their time some of these designs truly were. 

Why do you believe that Dior continues to resonate and inspire?
CR: I believe Dior continues to resonate today because it has always celebrated a timeless ideal of elegance while remaining in tune with the present. The house honours its heritage without being confined by it — each creative chapter builds on a strong foundation of femininity, refinement, and bold vision. For me, it’s that balance between tradition and reinvention that makes Dior endlessly inspiring.

UBS House of Craft x Dior will run from June 6-8 at 28 Pine Street in New York City. Register here.