Brand storms onto scene
Dramatic backdrop of downpour sees Balenciaga models set the climate, He Qi reports in Shanghai.
However, nature had other plans, as rain fell the next evening. With the sunset obscured, 800 guests flown in from around the world had to wait in the museum lobby for the rain to stop, or for a Plan B.
The rain did not stop, and there was no Plan B.
After a delay of about half an hour, everyone entered the venue with umbrellas in hand, including world-acclaimed actresses Sophie Marceau and Michelle Yeoh, as well as Chinese celebrities and stars.
To the soundtrack by French musician BFRND, models walked under the rain.
Initially, there was disappointment at the rain disrupting the meticulously prepared show and the uncomfortable feeling of wet seats. However, as the models walked calmly through the deluge, the clothes took on a special allure.
Gradually, everyone realized that it was typical of Balenciaga, whose artistic director Demna had made the runway slippery with water. After all, he had once simulated blizzard-like conditions in previous shows to create tension. Now, there was this natural curtain of rain in Shanghai.
The passing cruise ships on the Huangpu River, the majestic Oriental Pearl Tower, the dazzling Bund landscape, the guests holding up black umbrellas, and the meticulously crafted soundtrack by BFRND, all served as indispensable but vivid features of the show.
