Sitting front row at the Dior Cruise 2024 fashion show would be a monumental occasion for any fashion fan. But for Monica Barbaro, the breakout star of last year's Top Gun: Maverick, attending the show was particularly sentimental. Not only was it her first-ever fashion show, but it was also held in Mexico City, a city that holds a special place in her heart.

Ahead, Barbaro shares more about the meaning behind the event, plus all about her getting-ready experience.

InStyle: How does it feel to be attending Dior Cruise show in Mexico City?

Monica Barbaro: First. Fashion. Show! I’m beyond excited. My grandmother was from this city and she loved fashion. I like to think she would have enjoyed seeing the way Maria Grazia Chiuri brought Dior [here] with intrigue and elegance.

What was the inspiration for your look at the show?

I’ve always thought a fashion show would be a perfect time to push the envelope so I was excited by the idea of wearing something that didn’t look like anything I’d ever worn. I wanted something cool but also comfortable that would evoke a creative spirit and this beautiful, funky coat felt just right.

What products are you bringing in your bag?

Dior Addict Lipstick in shade Burgundy Oblique, Dior Forever Cushion Powder… also my little 35mm camera with plenty of film.

What would we be surprised to know about your getting-ready process?

I tend to over-caffeinate out of sheer excitement.

Getting Glam

This was my second time getting to work with Ana G de V [for makeup] and Erick Moreno [for hair]. It’s always nice to get to collaborate with the same talented artists you’ve already worked with in a city away from home.

Making Headlines

Paseo de la Reforma was abuzz with all the people in town for the show.

Palette Cleanser

When you have a bold fashion look, it’s a challenge to decide how to curate the makeup look to complement the piece, and there were so many colorful options to choose from from Dior Beauty.

Simple Yet Effective

In the end, Ana kept the color palette simple but played with the subtle detail of a perfectly pointed lower lash line.

Final Coat

And now for dressing!

All About the Dress

This look had many layers. A bra top and shorts went under this soft, sheer dress.

Charmed, I'm Sure

The team at Dior picked out the perfect jewelry pairings. Luckily, Queenie did my nails in Los Angeles for a photoshoot the day before!

Last Touches

When there’s time pressure, it’s all hands on deck. Here’s Erick taking a moment away from my hair to help me finish getting dressed.

Secure the Bag

This bag, again courtesy of the team’s pairing prowess, was just right.

Out the Door

And we’re off!

Experience of a Lifetime

P.S. I made a new friend this weekend. Maripol shot the iconic portrait of Maria Grazia that you see everywhere, and I had the honor of being photographed by her earlier in the day. She’s a beautiful person and artist and she’ll be the one I look for at future events with Dior! And to the right of me is my friend and agent, Taylor Rahmani, also a new fan of Maripol's.

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