The new sounds in his assortment are unobtrusive—well, other than the twirling hallucinogenic print that swings off sleeves and shadings another hoodie-cape. The greatest fashion move is the rise of the vest, haltered around the neck and either slicked near the body or draping long as a layering piece past
Gvasalia is quick to admit that Balenciaga’s pre-collections aren’t really about newness. The off-seasons are chances to elaborate on what he calls the house’s “archetypes,” pieces like oversized car coats and parkas; the swingy Vareuse dress; logo denim; tracksuits, hoodies, and tees, of course; and the funnily named pantashoes. This time around, the styling
“You find the pieces of the puzzle for a collection, building it from symbols and signs, but never forgetting the reality of the person who will wear it and bring it to life. The women and men should be powerful and effortless, equal and joyful, a reflection of who they really are – only