Balenciaga is a high-end fashion house that has seen its fair share of controversy over the years. From using provocative advertising featuring children in bondage gear to selling overpriced postcards, the brand has certainly raised eyebrows.
Despite its eccentric designs and questionable marketing tactics, Balenciaga managed to generate a whopping £3.5 billion in revenue last year. Founded in 1917 by Cristobal Balenciaga, the brand was once highly respected in the fashion world. However, when Demna Gvasalia took over in 2015, things took a turn for the bizarre.
Gone were the elegant silhouettes and innovative designs that the brand was known for. Instead, customers were presented with oversized puffer jackets, bin bag dresses, and even a bag that resembled a blue Ikea tote, priced at a whopping £1,670. The brand continued to push the envelope with items like a Tesco carrier bag look-alike selling for £925 and a skirt that resembled a car footwell mat for £1,765.
Despite the backlash and criticism, celebrities like Kim Kardashian, Naomi Campbell, and Dua Lipa continued to support the brand by wearing its outlandish creations. Even after the controversial bondage teddy bear bags incident that led to a lawsuit, stars like Katy Perry and Nicole Kidman were spotted at Balenciaga’s Paris Fashion Week show.
The question remains, why do celebrities and fashion enthusiasts continue to flock to Balenciaga and shell out exorbitant amounts of money for items that seem like a mockery of fashion? While the allure of owning a piece from a prestigious brand may be enticing, it’s essential to question the value and authenticity of these items.
Instead of splurging on overpriced novelty items, consumers are encouraged to seek out more meaningful and sustainable fashion choices. While Balenciaga’s over-the-top designs may capture attention, they may not necessarily be a wise investment in the long run.
In a world where fast fashion and trends come and go, it’s important to make thoughtful decisions about where we choose to spend our hard-earned money. While Balenciaga’s evolution from respected fashion house to controversial trendsetter may be intriguing, it’s essential to consider the implications of supporting such a brand.
So, the next time you’re tempted to purchase a £1,500 pair of dirty trainers or a £70 postcard pack, consider whether it aligns with your values and priorities. Fashion should be a form of self-expression and creativity, not a means to conform to outlandish trends set by luxury brands like Balenciaga.