Cardi B struts her stuff on the Balenciaga runway

Cardi B, known for her stunning red carpet looks, surprised everyone on Saturday by making her fashion show debut on the catwalk for Balenciaga. She rocked a bold floor-length blue coat and sparkling diamond jewelry at the star-studded event, which shut down a stretch of Los Angeles South Windsor Boulevard for the exclusive presentation.

"Yesterday was an incredible experience!" she posted on her Instagram on Sunday, giving a shoutout to the Spanish brand and its creative director Demna Gvasalia. "I had an amazing time strutting your runway!" Previously on X (formerly Twitter), she shared a photo of herself walking the catwalk with the caption, "On my way to chic fil A!"

Cardi B was joined by models Liu Wen and Mariacarla Boscono on the tree-lined outdoor runway, making it the first time the brand has ever hosted a show in LA.

The storied house took over part of South Windsor Boulevard in Los Angeles for the event, which marked their first show in the city.

Emma McIntyre/Getty Images for Balenciaga

The rapper, anticipated to release her second studio album next year, is known for her sophisticated haute couture and bold fashion choices, like the vintage oyster-themed Mugler dress she rocked at the 2019 Grammys. Vogue's editor-in-chief Anna Wintour has lauded the 31-year-old's style, singling out her burgundy Thom Browne gown as a memorable look at the Met Gala that year.

The off-the-shoulder coat she wore on Saturday is part of the new pre-fall 2023 collection by Balenciagas, priced at $7,950. The collection includes a variety of looks ranging from baggy, layered "neo-grunge" ensembles to structural evening gowns. The show also featured activewear with shorts, bra tops, and leggings, and a "jersey section" inspired by 2000s-style velour tracksuits, according to the label. Elsewhere, Louis Vuitton held a dramatic runway show in Hong Kong.

Balenciaga's promotional notes describe the collection as Demna's unique interpretation of LA's fashion codes, taking a cinematic and character-driven approach. The collection is designed to transition seamlessly from everyday activities like jogging, yoga, and gym sessions to glamorous Hollywood evenings, featuring step-and-repeat-ready, Cristóbal Balenciaga-inspired gowns. Updated grunge, upscaled daywear, and signature tailoring also play a significant role in the collection.

Just a year after facing public backlash for two controversial ad campaigns, the Spanish label is back with a glitzy show. The previous controversies involved campaign images featuring young children in bondage gear and props printed with a Supreme Court ruling on child pornography. Despite the fallout, Balenciaga collaborator Kim Kardashian was in attendance at the recent show, alongside half-sister Kendall Jenner.

Danish model Brigitte Nielsen returned to the catwalk in a pair of thigh-high platforms with a seven-inch heel.

Taylor Hill/Getty Images

Plenty of Hollywood stars were spotted on the front row, which was no surprise considering the location. Attendees included Salma Hayek, Zooey Deschanel, Eva Longoria, and Nicole Kidman, who was also announced as a brand ambassador for Balenciaga on the same day.

Danish actor and model Brigitte Nielsen, known for her presence in 1980s fashion, made a comeback on the runway in a striking all-black ensemble, complete with thigh-high platform boots. "At 60, I never thought I'd be modeling again," she shared with Vogue, admitting she had to adjust to the seven-inch platforms.