On the Road

The words of Jack Kerouac, an iconic figure of the Beat Generation, resonate like a new desire, an impetus thrusting towards the future, a ground-breaking vision. A driving force of the collection, the novel On the Road* breathes its free, unfettered spirit into it, reflecting an irresistible quest for meaning following the trail blazed by Rimbaud.

From the road to the runway, the models, dressed in looks that mingle counterculture with couture, refinement with the modern casualness of American sportswear, take the catwalk in their stride, reinterpreting, in an XXL version, the legendary manuscript of this famed work**.

Striking light into the heart of darkness, the giant text unfurls like a literary choreography announcing the beginning of the show. An entrancing scroll, a spiritual guide, Jack Kerouac’s work permeates the scenography and Kim Jones’ creations, offering a singular reading of the world, a promise of new perspectives. An exhilarating celebration of the boundless imagination cradled by the poet’s vision and freewheeling, meteoric writing.

The first Dior men’s fashion show in London, this unique event boasted an exceptional live performance by singer Grace Jones. And an ultimate surprise: the discovery of Kim Jones’ dazzling private collection of rare first editions, during an exclusive, ephemeral exhibition – staged on the evening of the show – curated by Sammy Jay, Literary Specialist at world-leading rare book dealer Peter Harrington. A polyphonic hymn to boldness and self-assertion, to the cutting-edge of creativity and inspiration in all guises. 

© Adrien Dirand   © Alfredo Piola

THE MAKING OF

© Melinda Triana

*On the Road, published by Viking Press in 1957.

** Jack Kerouac wrote On the Road in three weeks on a 36-meter-long roll.