Kelsey Merritt Takes Us Inside Maria Grazia Chiuri's Final Dior Collection

As the Dior Cruise 2026 runway show began in the gardens of the Villa Albani Torlonia in Rome, Italy, rain began to fall, but it didn’t interfere with the magnificent collection. “Just minutes before the show started, the rain came,” model Kelsey Merritt told with Who What Wear, who sat along the front row. “But by the time the finale began, the sky cleared. It added this beautiful, cinematic drama to the show.” The Dior show marks the final collection for creative director Maria Grazia Chiuri who has been leading the French fashion house for nine years since joining in 2016—an announcement that came the day following the event.

Chirui’s beautiful collection combined both resort and couture designs, including diaphanous gowns, soft ruffles and lace, and a palette of white, gold, and metallic grey. Many in the fashion world, including Merritt, responded that the heartfelt collection in Chiuri's hometown of Rome was one of her strongest showings during her tenure. “This might be my favorite collection Maria Grazia has ever done,” Merritt shared. “It was poetic, powerful, and so emotionally moving.” Ahead, Kelsey Merritt takes Who What Wear inside the Dior Cruise 2026 collection and Maria Grazia Chiuri’s stunning grand finale for the French fashion house.

Tell me about your first fashion memory.

I’ve always loved fashion. Even as a little girl, I’d spend all my savings on clothes. It’s been a passion of mine for as long as I can remember.

What about your first Dior memory?

I was first introduced to Dior early in my career, and it immediately struck me as the epitome of elegance and timelessness. I remember being so inspired by the craftsmanship and legacy behind every piece.

Do you have any pre-show routines or rituals? What is something about your runway show prep that people wouldn't expect?