Demna described his latest collection for Balenciaga “a study of different ‘standard’ clothes,” presented in a backstage maze designed to reflect the creative process.
The collection focuses on reinterpreting standard dress codes by deconstructing and reshaping familiar garments through precise dressmaking techniques, all while looking back at some of the classic designs of Demna from his nearly 10-year tenure at the house.
Businesswear took centre stage with four standard-fit two-piece suits, each presenting distinct attitudes. The collection also challenged conventional tailoring, pairing a standard-fit jacket with a maxi skirt. Outerwear included streamlined coats, a double-breasted cashmere coat with broken buttons, and a trench coat made from fake fur, with a back-to-front quarter-zip referencing Balenciaga’s past designs for Bunny Mellon.
A maxi hoodie is inspired by Balenciaga’s 1967 wedding dress, while crushed resin-treated denim creates a permanently wrinkled effect. Supermini silhouettes include sweater dresses cinched with oversized pins and skirts fashioned from knotted garments.
Elsewhere in the show Balenciaga X PUMA technical sportswear merged minimalism with performance. Footwear innovations include Speedcat Ultrasoft trainers with a destroyed Formstrip, Excavator Riding boots, and Monsieur derbies. Accessories feature horoscope necklaces, unset Frame rings, and modular eyewear inspired by ski goggles.
By redefining traditional silhouettes, Demna transformed the ordinary into the unexpected.
