The Balenciaga black dress is very simple behind the eternal classic minimalist

Is the Balenciaga little black skirt a safe and timeless choice? The answer, as revealed by two engraved black skirts, is a definite no. These pieces challenge the notion of simplicity, showing that even the most basic designs can carry a powerful message.

The Balenciaga little black skirt, created by Cristobal Balenciaga, was so avant-garde that it left very few visual records of his work. Even the only video of his creations was secretly recorded and preserved. To keep his legacy alive, Balenciaga launched the Re Edition series, allowing modern audiences to experience the iconic styles that shaped fashion history. At the recent Balenciaga Edition exhibition in Shanghai, visitors had the rare opportunity to see Nicolas Ghesquière’s curated selection from the Re Edition collection—an unforgettable moment for any fashion enthusiast. Balenciaga, originally founded by Spanish designer Cristobal Balenciaga, was known for his innovative approach to clothing. Like Coco Chanel, he constantly redefined his style, creating a unique aesthetic. However, his work was often understated yet exaggerated, leaving behind few images and even fewer videos. This scarcity led to the creation of the Re Edition line, offering a glimpse into the masterpieces that once influenced the world of fashion.

The minimalist black dress from Balenciaga is more than just a simple piece—it's a statement. While a small black skirt may seem like a conservative choice, these two examples prove otherwise. One features intricate three-dimensional black beads, reminiscent of a gentleman’s tailoring. Another has an arch-shaped silhouette that evokes a religious gown. The clean, smooth lines are both elegant and powerful, reflecting the era’s shift toward structured silhouettes. Restoring this black skirt was no easy task. The original sequins were long discontinued, forcing the designers to recreate them with precision. Each bead was hand-embroidered, resulting in a price tag of 450,000 yuan. Another piece from 1957 serves as a precursor to the classic doll dress. Though it may appear simple today, its craftsmanship is nothing short of extraordinary. Many of Balenciaga’s dresses featured built-in support structures like boning or bras to maintain shape. The fluffy skirts often used stiff fabrics such as organza to hold their form. Even the lace hem was meticulously hand-embroidered to ensure perfect alignment, no matter how the garment was turned. Faced with such craftsmanship, one can’t help but be amazed. High fashion may look effortless, but behind every simple line lies a complex thought process. Balenciaga’s approach to minimalism was not just about simplicity—it was about perfection. By stripping away unnecessary elements, the brand brought a new energy to high fashion. This simplicity, however, was crafted with meticulous care—a reflection of Zen-like precision. In the end, true artistry lies not in complexity, but in the ability to create something timeless and flawless.