The world has seen many a major fashion collaboration in recent years, but we’re pretty sure you haven’t seen anything like this.
Balenciaga debuted its 2023 Resort Collection on Sunday in partnership with Adidas, and the result is a daring array that mixes luxury evening-wear with athleisure and a bit of fetish kink.
This was no ordinary collection, and it deserved an extraordinary runway, so Balenciaga creative director Demna Gvasalia held the off-season SS23 show at the heart of wall street; The New York Stock exchange.
Models took the catwalk by storm, surrounded by the neon stock tickers of the trading floor; representing the fashion’s introduction into the world of cryptocurrency.
The two iconic brands collaborated to create ensembles that blended the famous Adidas stripes with Balenciaga’s full silhouettes. Models walked the runway with their faces covered in latex masks, ensuring viewers laid eyes only on the outfits themselves.
From classic black suits to glistening gowns and bright Adidas sets, outfits remained mostly monotone for the duration, excepting for little pops of color. Every few looks, a model would walk out wearing classic Adidas colors from head to toe, adding vibrancy to the show and allowing the collaboration to stand out.
Gvasalia did what he does best and put a twist on resort wear by elevating loungewear pieces into high-end fashion looks. The collection includes trench coats, double-breasted overcoats, elevated suits, gowns and silk jumpsuits.
There was an emphasis on classic Balenciaga staples; loose pants, the classic nearly-knee-length t-shirt, the bulkiest shoes the brand has ever produced, and the Adidas collaboration pieces.
Utilizing the classic Adidas stripes with Balenciaga’s oversized look, Gvasalia understood the assignment. The collab also includes sneakers, sock shoes, a re-designed pair of Adidas’ Stan Smiths, and a take on Belciaga’s Triple S design.
Clothes included classic Adidas sweatpants, raincoats, puffer jackets and shirts à la Balenciaga. Each item in the collection is significantly oversized and bares Balenciaga’s very specific silhouette.
The 33-piece collection was immediately available online to shop following the show via Balenciaga’s website, including the partnership with Adidas. According to High Snobiety, the Balenciaga x Adidas Triple S sneaker collaboration is only available now until May 29th for pre-order, so get a pair while you can.