Runway Report: Balenciaga Fall 2015

Alexander Wang looked to the original Balenciaga client, “the society women, the aristocrats, the regal women,” as he embarked on designing FW15. But the opulent textiles and textures, sophisticated structured shapes, and bauble jewels were certainly not without the subversive bite the modern day Balenciaga woman is after. Staples gleamed from seams, grommeted leather moto belts became jacket collars, tweeds shined with interwoven strips of rubber and popped with seemingly spray-painted detailing, mini-razor blades became a metallic bodice for a finale gown, and nearly every look was paired with patent leather combat boots.

Wrap around skirts were pinned together creating high-slits and paired with cocooned sleeved coats and ears armored with jewels. Cigarette pants and midi-skirts were immeasurably chic, with even the finale gowns reimagined at new tea-length proportions showing some ankle. Cluster beaded chainmail and fur accented collars, necklines, and strapless bodices in looks made for a contemporary court reigning high-fashion. One thing is for sure: Wang looks good on Balenciaga, and we think Cristóbal would agree.