Christian Dior, minus Raf Simons, manages a fine ready-to-wear collection

There was plenty of anticipation ahead of Christian Dior’s first autumn-winter ready-to-wear show in Paris since the label lost yet another high-profile creative director. However, the studio overcame Raf Simons’ departure, presenting a tightly edited collection of covetable and wearable pieces for loyal fans. Unlike the inglorious ejection of John Galliano, Dior seems to have taken Simons’ departure in its stride, as seen in this lovely line-up of asymmetrical draped dresses with appealing bare shoulders and beautifully tailored dark suiting.

There were classic Dior silhouettes. Collars came either big and paired with wide lapels on jackets and shirts or high and sophisticated. Even though it leaned on plenty of house codes, the collection remained cool and modern, possessing richness, depth and a dash of the kooky that was pleasantly surprising. Skirts, coats and dresses were cut in a modern, elegant style.

Great new handbags, Mad Max-style glasses and a bit of youthful city edge marked a departure from the more ethereal, pale-hued and naive country leanings favoured by Simons.

Taken together, this was a rather sensual collection, with flirty peplums and mesmerising floral prints accenting beautifully made outfits for the modern day Dior woman.