Dior’s Summer 2025 Men’s collection featured a notable collaboration with Earth Age, a Cape Town-based fashion brand known for its commitment to sustainability and community empowerment. This partnership highlighted the fusion of South African craftsmanship with French haute couture, bringing attention to eco-conscious design and artisanal skill.

The collaboration with Dior was initiated when Edward Crutchley, a designer at Christian Dior Couture, discovered Earth Age’s work at their V&A Watershed store. Impressed by their craftsmanship, he invited them to contribute to Dior Menswear’s Summer 2025 show in Paris.

In partnership with Dior’s artistic director Kim Jones and renowned milliner Stephen Jones, Earth Age created a series of hand-crocheted cloche hats. These hats, made from natural fibres in vibrant colours, were adorned with ceramic beads crafted by Parisian artist Yann Petillault. The designs reflected a blend of South African and French artistic traditions, emphasizing the value of cross-cultural collaboration.

Described as “the crowning glory of the collection”, The hats were prominently featured in the Dior show. Their inclusion not only showcased Earth Age’s dedication to sustainable fashion but also highlighted the importance of integrating traditional craftsmanship into contemporary design.

Earth Age’s participation in the Dior show brought significant attention to South African artisans and the potential of sustainable fashion on the global stage. The collaboration served as a testament to the brand’s mission of fostering community through creative expression and environmental consciousness.

This partnership between Earth Age and Dior exemplifies how fashion can transcend borders and traditions, creating meaningful connections through shared values and artistic innovation.