Day six of Paris Fashion Week was dramatic and glamorous to say the least. One of the highlights of the day was indeed Balenciaga, who revealed their Winter 2022 Collection, in what was as powerful yet immersive show.
Starting from the invites, which were emblazoned on the back of naturally damaged iPhone 6s, was an ode to the situation unfolding in Ukraine.
The show, which saw in excess of 500 guests took place in what could aptly be described as a life-size snow-globe. In fact, Creative Director Demna said that fashion was not a priority at the moment and the world should instead focus on love.
Expectedly, there were stunning silhouettes on display, with a vast array of leather apparel including jackets and bombers. Turtlenecks, trousers and hoodies were also the order of the day. However, none of these were in the state one would expect them to be – they were either distressed, over-sized or shrunken.
The brand’s custom packaging tape was a recurring theme, as showcased by celebrity Kim Kardashian, who wore an entire dress made from the caution tape. The accessories were equally stunning with bags and pouches that were crafted from sustainable materials, while footwear range included new sneaker and stilettoes. Balenciaga also revealed a new mycelium-based, eco-friendly material called EPHEA™ that has been developed exclusively for the House.
The other show-stopper on the day was Valentino, who revealed Creative Director Pierpaolo Piccioli’s Pink PP Collection. The designer stripped the entire colour palette down to a single hue – pink.
The colour was dominant across the show, with occasional palette-cleansing black and white creations. According to the brand it used “Pink as a manifestation of the unconscious and a liberation from the need for realism.”
The monochromatic belligerence ran through the shapes as well, with “large volumes sculpted on the body by geometric tucks that highlight the gesture of tightening, sensual s-shaped lines, very short hemlines, cinched waists.”
In fact, Valentino is collaborating with Pantone Colour Institute to create a unique identity, that is individual and inimitable.
Other notable designers that showcased their creations included: Schiaparelli, Givenchy and Kenneth iZE.
