The Label
Cristobal Balenciaga started his couture house back in 1919, influencing the face of modern couture with his imposing, sculpture-like silhouettes. The line, dormant for nearly thirty years, stepped into the ready-to-wear arena in the 90's, reproducing classic looks for the minimal tides of that era. Balenciaga has recently become red-hot again, thanks to the futuristic avant-gardism of the "Le Dix" collection, helmed by creative director Nicolas Ghesquiere.
The Look
Eclectically sexy.
The Designer
Formerly an assistant, Ghesquiere actually requested the creative director position at Balenciaga. He's given the house a completely new image, and has only recently revived classic Balenciaga looks with updated fabrics for the new "Edition" line.
The Designer Then
Josephus Thimister, the Belgian predecessor to Ghesquiere who turned out rough-hewn remakes of classic house pieces.