Best of Paris Fashion Week

Balenciaga SS11

There is a reason Suzy Menkes once called Nicolas Ghesquière “the most intriguing and original designer of his generation.” Not only did he single-handedly reinstate a label that had closed its doors some 30 years before Ghesquière came into the picture in 1997, he has continued to impress year after year.

This season, Ghesquière’s collection was filled with punchy graphics, leather outerwear, and the mixing of themes. Here, proto-punk met dandy fop when pretty tops came together with tough vests and a tailored version of motorcycle pants. There were a lot of tops cut asymmetrically, and one-shouldered dresses that were incredibly modern even though they hearkened back to the Scottish highlands. If you want to cop this look for spring, you’ll want to invest in leather pants, quilted leather jackets, and see-through blouses to make it work.

Another collection note: Bare legs are back in Balenciaga’s house. Have they sounded the death knoll for leggings and tights that have been so popular in season’s prior? In this collection, nary a leg-accessory was in sight.

Photos: Courtesy of GoRunway

This Week’s Highlights

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