Paris Fashion Week: Shunning Convention At Balenciaga
At Balenciaga, Demna Gvasalia’s third ready-to-wear collection mixed the serious, cool mood found in his own label, Vetements, with Balenciaga’s opulent motifs and signature layered looks. The new mini baby-dolls, for example, were evocative of those at Vetements, while the longuette skirts and animal prints reflected Balenciaga.
Outerwear included shawl-like capes and was given a distorted look. Oversized cosy sweaters and bags also featured heavily. The Creative Director chose to split dresses back to front, so you saw different things on different sides. Additionally, shirts protruded out because of the car mats patched into the back, just like some car mats were wrapped into skirts, making them point out at the hip. The car motif continued with nylon spare tire covers seen on totes and wing mirrors spotted on clutch bags.
By making the finale a procession of eveningwear, Gvasalia gave the house an added push. The ball gowns, which were apparently inspired by early couture collections from Cristóbal Balenciaga, were dramatic and perfect for making an entrance. Gvasalia included tiered empire lines, feathers and neon tights.
The likes of Salma Hayek and her fashion mogul husband, François-Henri Pinault, attended one of Paris’s most anticipated shows, held in Espace Champerret, a 53,820-square-foot exhibition space.
Click ‘Begin Slideshow’ to see some of our favourite looks from the show.
