Translating wearability was Demna Gvasalia’s main focus at Balenciaga this season, a commitment he executed in his distinct, recognizable manner. 

“It’s easy to put a chair on the head and say, oh, that’s wearable art—or putting a parka upside down, (which) I kind of did for the last 12 years—and I love it, by the way—but also I felt like maybe I had enough of that.” 

Following his after-show assertion, the collection opened with the most fundamental wardrobe essentials—sleek black tuxedos, impeccably tailored. A return to basics, indeed. 

At first glance, the collection might seem to reject innovation in favor of the ordinary. Yet, there is a statement embedded within—an homage to everyday clothing, celebrating its inherent purpose while aligning with our self-expression. Interestingly, showcasing seemingly banal, utilitarian garments as the core offering presents an unusual selling proposition. While pragmatic and commercially secure, the collection is not devoid of creativity or Demna’s signature nonconformist playfulness. 

“To me, it created that notion of urgency that I feel fashion needs a lot. A closeness to the core, which is the clothes.” 

Demna’s strength lies in his ability to reflect acute realities, anchoring fashion in contemporary societal contexts. Perhaps sensing the world’s current state as turbulent, he opted for a compilation of his past work, concentrating on “signature basics” for this fall Ready-to-wear 2025. 

Mundane clothing defines our everyday routines—whether for work, school, or errands—so why overcomplicate it? Demna has ventured into a path both criticized and intriguing, embracing simplicity to its very edge. Some may find it uninspiring, yet it remains thought-provoking. By injecting subtle absurdity into everyday wear, he ensures widespread appeal while strategically addressing consumer demands. His designs reflect deep market awareness, aligning with distinct fashion archetypes within the Balenciaga universe. 

From the local city guy, indifferent to fashion yet clad in a logo-heavy tracksuit that doubles as a status symbol, to the corporate-office girl drawn to the brand for its exclusivity and confidence-boosting allure, and finally, the fashion connoisseur, who perceives deeper meanings and appreciates the intellectual subtext—Demna’s collection carves out space for everyone. 

Opting for a portrayal of normality did not equate to abandoning avant-garde tailoring. The collection still featured structural innovations, such as an exaggerated puffer coat, a hooded cape gown, and rigid-collared cardigans—pieces that nod to Demna’s unconventionality. 

Beyond craftsmanship, Balenciaga’s collections often function as social experiments, and this season was no exception. The absurdity woven into these garments serves as a tool, adaptable to various personalities. Demna presents the illusion of triviality, yet his designs carry deeper connotations. The brand’s accessibility extends across social hierarchies—some consumers are content with surface-level consumption, while true enthusiasts recognize the understated complexity as a reflection of their own philosophies and unconventional mindsets. 

The creative director appears to be entering an era where he solidifies his legacy rather than chasing constant reinvention or shock value. As he puts it, he is “renouncing the current state of excessive, performative fashion.” Whether this conviction manifests in strategic collaborations—such as the newly announced partnership with Puma—or a continued focus on the importance of wearability remains to be seen. 

“Maybe what I want to do now is just to make great clothes for my customer, for someone who likes what I do and kind of relates to that aesthetic and who understands clothes through wearing them, not speculating about them.” 

Avoiding speculation about his potential departure, Demna left no room for gossip. He confidently reinforced his position, relying on his ever-loyal customer base. Perhaps that’s why there was no grand finale—those who understood the message grasped it instantly, without need for repetition. His audience, diverse yet united by their appreciation of Balenciaga’s evolving language, will undoubtedly continue to follow an aesthetic that is as universal as fashion itself.