16 June 2011

Balenciaga and Spain

This is by far one of the most valuable books I own. Balenciaga and Spain is an art album, a journey through the masterful work of the greatest couturier, Cristóbal Balenciaga, and through the history and culture of Spain, which have never ceased to inspire him. My deepest admiration for the people who worked on this book, for all the thoroughly research and detailed description and guidance through the designs of this master of his métier. The fascination of Balenciaga for fashion, for designing, cutting and sewing the fabric into perfect tailoring, for making women look extraordinary, but comfortable in his clothes, his never fading interest in experimenting with structure and form deserve their passion.

“Balenciaga was the true son of a strong country filled with style, vibrant color, and a fine history. He remained forever a Spaniard…his inspiration came from the bullrings, the flamenco dancers, the fishermen in their boots and loose blouses, the glories of the church and the cool of the cloisters and monasteries. He took their colors, their cuts, then festooned them to his own taste.” Diana Vreeland

photos: by me from the book Balenciaga and Spain

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16 Responses to Balenciaga and Spain

  1. design elements wrote on
    --> 16 June 2011 at 10:20 am

    your selection is beyond wonderful! warm hugs to you, Ada

  2. LittleRus wrote on
    --> 16 June 2011 at 10:35 am

    Amazing book! I’ve had it on my wish list for a while now. Thanks so much for the preview and story. x

  3. LatteLisa wrote on
    --> 16 June 2011 at 12:15 pm

    that book is a masterpiece and it’s on my wish list!

    PS. I posted something especially for you today 😉

  5. Alexis of NorthOnHarper wrote on
    --> 16 June 2011 at 5:29 pm

    Oh my gosh… the images in this book are gorgeous. And if you are even remotely accurate in your description of its thoroughness, I probably need to own it!

    • classiq wrote on
      --> 16 June 2011 at 5:51 pm

      @Alexis
      Oh, but I am, Alexis. I wouldn’t say this otherwise. The book traces so thoroughly and compellingly the Iberian influences on Balenciaga’s designs and it trully is a must-have volume for the art and fashion lovers. 🙂

  6. mary jo wrote on
    --> 16 June 2011 at 9:34 pm

    This is just a beautiful post Ada! I love his work so much and you have written about it so beautifully!

    xo Mary Jo

    p.s. You are the featured guest tomorrow morning on Eye on Style!

  7. Shin wrote on
    --> 16 June 2011 at 11:42 pm

    Hi Ada! Wow, this book looks like such a treasure to have! Balenciaga is such a huge fashion icon and I’m really fascinated by the history and how the brand has evolved over the years! Thank you for sharing the pictures! Wishing you a lovely week! xoxoxoo

  8. Kristen wrote on
    --> 17 June 2011 at 2:01 am

    just from these photos i can tell this book must be incredible!

  9. kimia kline wrote on
    --> 17 June 2011 at 11:14 am

    i just saw an AMAZING exhibit on balenciaga and spain at the de young museum in san francisco. it was incredible and forever changed the way i viewed fashion.

  10. Frédérique wrote on
    --> 17 June 2011 at 12:00 pm

    i love this brand and the book seems to be great
    the origins of Balenciaga’s inspiration are so interesting !

  11. Blue wrote on
    --> 17 June 2011 at 3:12 pm

    Pink dress + lace + black satin bow = perfection!

  12. jasna wrote on
    --> 17 June 2011 at 3:13 pm

    Wow these images are stunning!! Happy Friday hun xx

  13. Georgianna wrote on
    --> 18 June 2011 at 4:47 pm

    Absolutely stunning book and brilliant work. I can see why it’s a treasure in your collection. Thanks so much for sharing. Happy weekend! – g

  14. Rochii de seara wrote on
    --> 2 August 2012 at 5:06 pm

    This book is a treasure!!! and Balenciaga a fashion icon!