The Untold Story of Cristobal Balenciaga: A Journey From Obscurity to Icon

The Early Life and Rise of Balenciaga

A new series on Disney+ Spain, 'Cristobal Balenciaga,' delves into the fascinating journey of the renowned fashion designer, shedding light on his personal and professional struggles that led to the establishment of an iconic fashion house. Born in 1895 in the small town of Getaria, Spain, Cristobal Balenciaga's humble beginnings as the son of a seamstress laid the foundation for his remarkable career. His early exposure to the art of tailoring, first through his mother and later as a tailor's apprentice, cultivated his passion for fashion and design.

In his early 20s, the designer opened stores in San Sebastian, Spain, then Madrid and Barcelona.

At the age of 22, Balenciaga opened his first boutique in San Sebastian, Spain, and soon expanded to Madrid and Barcelona. However, the outbreak of the Spanish Civil War forced the closure of his stores, prompting his move to Paris in 1937. It was in the competitive Parisian fashion scene that Balenciaga's journey to establish his own fashion house began, marking a pivotal moment in his life and career.

For the show's creators, showcasing Balenciaga’s skill as a master dressmaker was one of the most important aspects of the series.

The Master Dressmaker and Personal Challenges

The series 'Cristobal Balenciaga' offers a glimpse into the designer's mastery as a dressmaker, portraying his meticulous approach to design and creation. Balenciaga's unparalleled skill in crafting garments, combined with his aversion to sketches, set him apart in the world of haute couture. His contemporaries, including Coco Chanel and Christian Dior, hailed him as the 'master of us all' and 'the only true couturier,' attesting to his exceptional talent and influence in the fashion industry.

The show reveal how Balenciaga fostered a base of loyal clients through the 1940s and beyond, including Grace Kelly, Wallis Simpson and Marlene Dietrich.

In addition to his professional triumphs, the series delves into the personal challenges faced by Balenciaga, notably the loss of Wladzio Jaworowski d'Attainville, the brand's head milliner and Balenciaga's lover. This poignant aspect of his life adds depth to the portrayal of the designer, showcasing the human side behind the iconic fashion figure.

Legacy and Revival of Balenciaga

The legacy of Cristobal Balenciaga, as depicted in the series, extends beyond his innovative designs and masterful craftsmanship. The meticulous attention to detail, from fabric selection to garment construction, exemplifies his unwavering commitment to perfectionism. The recreation of Balenciaga's original designs, with access to the Maison Balenciaga archives, provides a visual representation of his enduring influence and iconic creations.

The Balenciaga Maison allowed series’ costume designers, Bina Daigeler and Pepo Ruiz Dorado, access to their archives and museum.

Furthermore, the series sheds light on the revival of the Balenciaga brand following a dormant period after the designer's passing. The appointment of Nicolas Ghesquière as Creative Director and subsequent developments in the modern era have reinvigorated the brand, aligning it with contemporary fashion trends while preserving Balenciaga's timeless legacy.