Archery Takes the Spotlight at Paris Fashion Week with Dior's Sporty Twist

Archery is having a moment. After a glamorous debut at the Paris Olympics under the grand gold dome of Les Invalides, the ancient sport took center stage once again, this time at Dior’s Paris Fashion Week show. Combining elegance, athleticism, and timeless fashion, the runway presentation set the tone for a season that celebrates both strength and modern femininity.

The show kicked off with Italian performance artist and competitive archer Sagg Napoli, who walked the catwalk with her bow in hand. Instead of a handbag, she carried arrows in a quiver slung over her shoulder. As she reached the runway's end, Napoli stretched, bounced on her toes, and proceeded to shoot arrows down a transparent corridor, with models walking on either side. The scene was a dynamic blend of fashion and athletic prowess.

The decision to incorporate archery wasn’t just for dramatic effect—it was part of designer Maria Grazia Chiuri’s exploration of how sport is reshaping modern women's fashion. “The rise of sport has changed the whole body language of women, and therefore of fashion,” Chiuri said. Her inspiration for this collection came from powerful feminine symbols, including the Roman goddess Diana, often depicted as an archer, and modern icons like Wonder Woman. Chiuri pointed out how Wonder Woman’s corset serves as a shield, symbolizing both protection and strength—elements that informed the sporty yet elegant looks in the show.

Chiuri’s collection featured a revival of the 1960s Dior Sport logo, famously worn by Jackie Kennedy Onassis on ski slopes. This season, tracksuit pants with go-faster stripes, stretchy tank tops, and calf-high sporty boots mirrored the Gen Z obsession with high socks and sporty streetwear. Chiuri balanced comfort with style, creating an aesthetic that speaks to women who live active, dynamic lives—without sacrificing luxury.

Among those attending Dior’s show were Brigitte Macron, Dior CEO Delphine Arnault, and Queen Sonja of Norway, lending an air of prestige and gravitas to the already star-studded event. As Paris continues to be both a fashion capital and a cultural epicenter, Dior's innovative designs ensured the brand stayed at the forefront of global fashion.