Dating from circa 1998–1999, during John Galliano’s early years at Christian Dior, this extraordinary choker reflects the maison’s shift into elaborate cultural references, sculptural accessories, and couture-grade ornamentation. Strongly Maasai-inspired, the design builds upward from the neck with multiple strands of champagne faux pearls, each meticulously layered to achieve a dramatic collar silhouette reminiscent of traditional stacked neckpieces.
Interwoven throughout the pearl strands are elements signature to Galliano’s Dior:
- A soft green velvet ribbon, adding textural contrast and romantic detailing
- A silver-tone curb chain, grounding the piece with a harder, modern edge
- A dangling rhinestone-encrusted D-shaped tassel, capturing the late-’90s Dior obsession with ornamental logos
- Two engraved “Dior Couture” plate charms, echoing atelier labels and haute couture tag motifs Galliano frequently referenced on runways
The choker is structured with a double-hook clasp and rigid silver-tone side bars, allowing the many strands to fall in clean, intentional layers. The matching single pearl-strand earring with Dior plaque completes the set’s couture sensibility.
This period of Dior (1997–2001) saw Galliano experimenting with global costume traditions, theatrical silhouettes, and decadent layering, making this piece highly representative of the era’s aesthetic. Its craftsmanship and maximalism place it firmly among Dior’s most collectible late-1990s accessories.
