On July 9, in the chic atmosphere of Avenue George V, Demna bid farewell to Balenciaga, leaving us with a collection that felt like a heartfelt love letter to the brand’s rich heritage. After a decade of pushing the boundaries of luxury fashion, he seamlessly blended his vision with the spirit of the legendary Cristóbal Balenciaga. This collection not only honored the house’s roots but also celebrated his distinct design legacy. Can you believe it’s the end of an era? 😢✨
A runway of icons: Huppert and Kardashian
Two incredible women graced the runway, each bringing their unique flair to Demna’s vision. Isabelle Huppert, with her quintessential Parisian elegance, radiated intellectual sophistication in a high-collared black silhouette paired with oversized sunglasses. This look was a beautiful nod to the classic Parisienne, effortlessly capturing the essence of Balenciaga’s timeless allure.
On the flip side, Kim Kardashian lit up the runway in a stunningly sleek white silk slip dress, channeling vibes from the iconic film “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof,” layered beneath a luxurious mink coat adorned with feathers. Talk about a glam moment! 💃✨ Those diamond earrings she wore, borrowed from Elizabeth Taylor’s personal collection, were the cherry on top. This striking contrast between Huppert’s quiet grace and Kardashian’s bold glamour painted a vivid picture of femininity—powerful and diverse. Who else thinks this partnership is everything? 🙌
The collection: a dialogue between past and present
Demna’s collection was strikingly sober in color yet rich in texture, revisiting the archetypes of bourgeois fashion. Think Medici collars, innovative corsetry, and sculpted sleeves. The reimagined houndstooth suit from 1967 was a clever nod to the brand’s history, while trompe-l’œil corduroy pieces showcased intricate craftsmanship. Each detail served as a reminder that fashion is not just about aesthetics; it’s about storytelling and artistry.
One of the standout features was the “one-size-fits-all” ensembles that embraced models of various body types. Demna’s mantra, “It’s not the garment that defines the body, but the body that defines the garment,” resonates deeply today. It’s all about inclusivity and celebrating individuality, which feels so refreshing in the fashion world! 🌍💖
A fitting farewell: reflections on a legacy
As the show wrapped up with Sade’s “No Ordinary Love,” the final look—a breathtaking guipure lace dress—served as a poignant reminder of Demna’s quest for perfection. With a sculptural elegance that feels otherworldly, it encapsulated his journey at Balenciaga, leaving us all in awe. Do you think he achieved the impossible? 🤔🌟
The front row was a star-studded affair, packed with A-listers like Nicole Kidman, Cardi B, and Katy Perry—all there to honor the designer who redefined what luxury means for a new generation. And guess what? In just a few days, Pierpaolo Piccioli will step into this role, while Demna gears up for his next chapter at Gucci. What a transition for the fashion world! 🌟
So, what are your thoughts on Demna’s legacy at Balenciaga? Did he elevate the brand to new heights, or do you think it could have taken a different direction? Let’s chat about it! 💬💖
