Before Nicholas Ghesquiere took the reins at Balenciaga and turned it into the edgy label that it is today, Spaniard Cristobal Balenciaga created pieces for aristocrats. His signature pieces were dramatic black coats and dresses that recalled Spanish fashions of the Elizabethan age, working with stuff fabrics to create a sculptural appearance. His sack dress designed in 1956 was quite popular with consumers and inspired other designers to copy the look, and is also credited with creating the empire line.
Take a look at this snippet from spring summer 1960 collection; it’s vintage Cristobal Balenciaga.
