Dior v Valentino: Argument erupts after Rome show allegedly blocks shop

A row erupted in the haute couture world after French fashion house Dior demanded compensation from Italian rival Valentino for allegedly blocking access to a Dior store during a a runway show in Rome's Spanish Steps, according to a claim from fashion site Women's Wear Daily.

Valentino positioned his audience of fashion editors, photographers and of celebrities - including Naomi Campbell, Kate Hudson and Anne Hathaway - at the foot of the 18th-century travertine staircase in Piazza di Spagna. The Dior boutique on Via Condotti overlooks the square.

In a letter to Valentino seen by Women's Wear Daily, Christian Dior Italia's retail manager says that access to the Dior boutique was "obstructed" and that customers "denied themselves access and were blocked at the barriers".

As a result, the store" remained empty and could not operate from the early hours of the afternoon" on Friday. Dior says the problem was "amplified" by the fact that the event was scheduled for a Friday, "a day when the receipts are surely [significant]".

On claims the French house is seeking €100,000 (£85,000) in compensation for the loss of business. According to the letter, if Valentino fails to pay the full amount within 15 days, Dior will "adopt all necessary measures to protect its rights."

Dior says Valentino wrote to local retailers on June 27, saying it was "ensuring steady foot traffic in stores." Dior maintains that this “was not reflected in any way” in the night. model.dotcomrendering.pageElements.ImageBlockElement" class="dcr-10khgmf">

According to WWD, no other local fashion retailer has filed a complaint. Dior's immediate neighbors on Via Condotti include brands Gucci, Prada and Moncler.

A participant, who requested anonymity, said: "Sure, there were a lot of people - a lot of people were watching the show from the streets, and there were barriers blocking people. ..