Dior showcased its latest haute couture collection in Dubai recently to a crowd of Mideast-based fashionistas, social media figures, celebrities, buyers, designers and editors. It was the first show in Dubai for the French fashion house under a large circus-style tent. The well-heeled Dubai crowd was wowed as models in sequined helmets presented the pieces inspired by the circus. Dior has a history with the big top, with the circus theme first appearing in a 1955 styled photo and reappearing under John Galliano’s creative direction.

The haute couture collection included details like a tattooed body suit that conjured up images of Victorian-era circus performers and a tulle jumpsuit of multi-colored streaks in satin bands and dramatically square shoulders. The presentation in Dubai, however, also included 15 entirely new creations unveiled especially for the show’s design conscious Arab Gulf-based audience. Dubai’s exuberant displays of luxury and the city’s surreal, futuristic-looking skyline were the ideal backdrop to the show.

Exclusive pieces at the invitation-only show, reflected in many ways Dubai’s own ambitions to become a global fashion and design hub. The emirate of Dubai in the United Arab Emirates has a reputation for glamour and over-the-top projects like manmade palm shaped islands, the world’s tallest tower and a seemingly endless pipeline of new five-star hotels and spas.