Balenciaga: secrets revealed on its 50th anniversary

The Balenciaga Legacy

Cristóbal Balenciaga is known for his mastery of haute couture and his ability to create unparalleled shapes and volumes. His creations have been dressing celebrities, aristocrats and fashionistas for decades. But beyond what is seen on the runway, there is an inner world that brings his designs to life.

The hidden secrets

In the Cristóbal Balenciaga Museum exhibition, the secrets that make a Balenciaga recognizable are revealed. What's behind those sleek silhouettes and impeccable lines? Here are some of the hidden details:

1. Labels and welts: labels and linings may seem trivial, but they are fundamental to the structure and comfort of a garment. Balenciaga paid special attention to these details, making sure each piece bore his distinctive stamp.

2. Petticoats and bodices: petticoats and bodices provide the foundation for skirts and dresses. Balenciaga designed these inner layers with precision, creating the perfect shape for each garment.

3. Pads and weights: to achieve the proper drape of the fabrics, Balenciaga used strategically placed pads and weights. This allowed the garments to maintain their shape and fluidity.

4. Hemlines and buttoning: invisible hems and well-executed buttoning are essential in haute couture. Balenciaga took care of every detail, ensuring that the garments were impeccable both inside and out.

5. Pockets and finishing details: pockets, often overlooked, are also part of the design. Balenciaga incorporated them in a functional and elegant way, without compromising the overall aesthetic.