Cristóbal Balenciaga

Cristóbal Balenciaga

'Balenciaga' was founded in 1918 in Spain, where the first boutique opened its doors. Almost 100 years later the design house is still excelling in the industry. It can be said Balenciaga was in a 'league of his own' with his uncompromising designs and modern silhouettes. Christian Dior spoke of him as 'the master of us all.' 

Balenciaga radically altered women's silhouettes in the early 20th Century, experimenting with diverse shapes that evoked fluidity and grace. It can be considered that this was his 'most important contribution to the world of fashion.'

During the second world war women risked travel across to Europe for Balenciaga's designs. His most celebrated piece of that time was the 'square coat'; in which the sleeve was cut into the same fabric as the yoke, creating a streamlined effect. Other signature looks constructed by Balenciaga was the 'balloon skirt;' or the dropped waist line, which opposed Dior's 'New Look' in the 50's. 

 

 Nicolas Ghesquière for Balenciaga

After Christobel Balenciaga's death the couture house followed suit, until 1986 when it was re-opened with a new ready-to-wear line.  After Jacques Bogart left the company, Ghesquière took over as head designer in 1997. His work for Balenciaga followed his innovative approach, by re-introducing past designs.