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, who sat in the front row, told Who What Wear. "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.

Chiuri's beautiful collection combined both resort and couture designs, including diaphanous gowns, soft ruffles and lace, and a palette of white, gold, and metallic gray. Many in the fashion world, including Merritt, responded that the heartfelt presentation 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 preshow routines or rituals? What is something about your runway show prep that people wouldn't expect?

If I have time, I love using red light therapy and microcurrent treatments before show day, especially when my skin needs a little extra love. It makes me feel refreshed and glowy from within.

Tell me about your beauty routine and the inspiration for your Dior Beauty look.

Lately, I've been keeping things really simple. My skin has been acting up with hives, so I'm sticking to the basics. For today's look, I went for a sun-kissed glow. Wearing white in Rome made me want to channel a bit of a Roman goddess vibe.

I'd love to know a bit about the look that you chose today. What about your outfit speaks to you and your personal style?

I was so excited when Dior sent me this look. It's a little different from my usual style, but it still feels very me. The silhouette is classic and refined, and the collar detail gives it a regal touch. I love how the boots bring a cool edge to the whole look.

What are your top photography tips for traveling?

My iPhone is my go-to. Some of my favorite shots have been taken on it. If I have space, I'll bring my Contax T3 for film photos. As for a photographer, it's usually whoever I'm traveling with. I love capturing spontaneous moments.

What's the most touristy, guilt-free pleasure you'll be indulging in while you're in Rome?

Pasta and gelato. Absolutely no guilt.

Dior has so many iconic pieces. If you could pull one Dior piece from the archives to wear for a special occasion, which one would it be?

The Junon gown from Dior's A/W 49 collection. The cascading petals and sculptural silhouette are pure magic. It's timeless, dramatic, and the ultimate statement piece. A true showstopper.

Tell me your thoughts about Maria Grazia Chiuri's Dior 2026 Cruise collection. What is your favorite look?

This might be my favorite collection Maria Grazia has ever done. It was poetic, powerful, and so emotionally moving. Her ability to blend craftsmanship with cultural storytelling is truly masterful.

What was everyone talking about on the front row?

We were all trying to stay dry. It hadn't rained once while we were in Rome, and then just minutes before the show started, the rain came. But by the time the finale began, the sky cleared. It added this beautiful, cinematic drama to the show. The venue itself had everyone completely enchanted.