Alexander Wang’s first Balenciaga collection has been hailed by critics for respecting the fashion house’s heritage and providing modern versions of Cristobal’s famous curvilinear silhouettes. But let’s not overlook the similarities between the looks that walked in Paris this morning and several of Wang’s previous designs. While Wang clearly referenced Balenciaga’s archives in his debut show, he also stuck close to home, reimagining many of his own past garments with a more polished, grown-up finish. (Of course, it’s quite likely his earlier designs were also inspired by Balenciaga, in which case he’s now come full-circle.) See where Wang’s eponymous line came through in today’s collection.
See Alexander Wang’s complete Balenciaga fall 2013 collection here.
Curved hemlines
Wang’s fall 2009 collection, left; Balenciaga fall 2013, right.
Marbled prints
Wang’s spring 2009 collection, left; Balenciaga fall 2013, center and right.
Lacy cut-outs
Wang’s spring 2009 collection, left; Balenciaga fall 2013, right.
Dried paint textures
Wang’s spring 2011 collection, left; Balenciaga fall 2013, right.
Gathered central pleats
Wang’s fall 2010 collection, left and center; Balenciaga fall 2013, right.
Rounded, voluminous shoulders
Wang’s fall 2012 collection, left; Balenciaga fall 2013, right.
Banded cut-out dresses
Wang’s spring 2013 collection, left and center; Balenciaga fall 2013, right.
Paneled white collared shirts
Wang’s spring 2013 collection, left; Balenciaga fall 2013, right.