BALENCIAGA AND SPAIN

Looking at Nicholas Ghesquiere's geometric designs for Balenciaga these days, one might forget the Spanish origins of the house of Balenciaga.

Balenciaga Fall 2011
from style.com

But upon closer look, these modern designs hint at Cristobal Balenciaga's couture house from long ago.

Balenciaga Fall 2011
shoe detail
from style.com

Design and costume exhibits seem to be the current rage these days at museums.  Over here at San Francisco's De Young Museum, "Balenciaga and Spain" is currently on exhibit.

Hamish Bowles, of European Vogue, has put together a study of Cristobal Balenciaga, his origins, and the influence of Spanish culture on his designs.  The photos below suggest the Torero to me:

"Balenciaga and Spain"
from the exhibit at the De Young Museum
photos from deyoung.famsf.org

Balenciaga was a creative genius.  He trained and mentored noted designers like Emanuel Ungaro, Courreges, and Givenchy.  And when you see his architectural designs, seemingly ahead of his time,

Balenciaga abstract evening ensemble, 1967
from Balenciaga archives

you appreciate what he did for fashion and couture.  Fortunately, Ghesquiere has also infused the label with cutting edge designs, like his "Lego" shoes.  Would Cristobal approve?

Nicholas Ghesquiere for Balenciaga
"Lego" platform shoes
from style.com

This is another one on my list of exhibits to see ...