Whether its a complete rebranding or just a new strategy, Balenciaga and creative director Demna Gvasalia have officially marked their return to the industry with the labels latest AW23 runway show and its making headlines for a very different reason than usual.
Usually a Balenciaga show is among the most anticipated and discussed shows from each fashion season. This is usually down to Demna’s unique approach that includes a number of viral moments and striking sets.Â
Some of the most memorable include Paris Fashion Week in 2021 when the Balenciaga show featured all of the outfits seen from the special The Simpsons Balenciaga episode, the snowstorm from the AW22 collection dedicated to Ukraine, and the mud pit for the SS23 collection that Kanye West stomped through.Â
However, Balenciaga‘s return to the runway didn’t include any high-profile names, sets, or even logos. Although, It did feature plenty Demna’s signature oversized tailoring, exaggerated shoulders, big rubber boots and abstract silhouettes – explore the gallery below.
Balenciaga and Demna’s AW23 show marks the French fashion houses first show since its 2022 advertising campaign scandal, which enraged the whole world and resulted in some very high-profile apologies from Balenciaga and the brand has been almost silent until now.
Prior to the AW23 show, Demna uploaded to his Instagram, plans for a huge reset at Balenciaga. He noted he planned to go back to basics with his AW23 show to focus on heritage, craftmanship and beautiful clothing rather than controversy.Â
Demna delivered on his promises for Balenciaga‘s AW23 show, dubbed the ‘Make-or-Break’ show.
With the absence of a high-profile celebrity dressed in full Balenciaga or the missing abundance of logos aside, this meant that the Balenciaga clothing could take centre-stage and be the main focus.Â
With a focus on shades of black, grey, and navy plus Denma’s signature futuristic aesthetic of exaggerated shoulders, big space-like boots, and oversized fits – Demna chose not to appear at the end of the show for the customary designers’ applause.Â
Balenciaga‘s return to the runway will definitely be a memorable one, but if it marks a new era for the label and begins its re-acceptance by the wider fashion industry, only time will tell.Â
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