Set against a palm tree-lined backdrop and the iconic Hollywood sign in center view, Balenciaga unveiled their Pre-Fall 2024 collection on December 2nd, 2023. Led by artistic director Demna, this marks the first time the fashion house has held a show in Los Angeles, and it has done so in classic LA fashion. Sharing with Harper's Bazaar, Demna said “I was showing my love for the influence that I got from this city.”
The show's backing track, scored by French musician and Demna's partner BFRND, consisted of a cacophony of peppy voiceovers and faux advertisements. A fun, satirical take on Los Angeles' over-the-top culture, it exhibited a common theme for Demna's shows which is to provide commentary on consumeristic culture, whilst at the same time acknowledging that the brand partakes and benefits from it.
As expected, a star-studded guest list was in attendance which included the newly announced brand ambassador Nicole Kidman, who said of her new role: “Balenciaga has been with me through some of the most memorable events in my life." Front row seats were taken by Eva Longoria, Lisa Rinna, Tracee Ellis Ross, Delilah Belle, Amelia Gray and sisters Kim Kardashian and Kendall Jenner to name a few, along with Cardi B who appeared on the runway adorning an oversized blue faux fur coat.
Kicking off with a series of activewear, the show begins with depicting casual activities like jogging and yoga with key pieces like leggings, bra tops and sweatshirts. The catwalk then cycles through displays of jersey, neo grunge, upscaled daywear and then finally evening wear. Ending with Hollywood glamour, extravagant gowns referencing original designs by Cristobal Balenciaga take center stage, with highly defined and sharply tailored silhouettes.
Accompanying accessories included mask and batwing shaped eyewear, as well as an introduction to Balenciaga's latest shoe design. The 10XL Sneaker is part of a range of exclusive release items available immediately following the show, including leather and knitted tote bags, caps and aprons made in collaboration with Erewhon, the LA based organic grocery chain. In collaboration with Jacob & Co there is also a range of jewelry available for purchase, designed with American youth culture in mind and upscaled to embody opulence.