Balanciaga Master of Lace

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"The technique, lightness and simplicity they displayed always took your breath away. Those ever-so-light ruffles and almost-invisible inlays enhanced the lace and gave it distinction. Whether working with guipure, heavier but with more graphic contours, with diaphanous tulle or very light Chantilly lace, Balenciaga applied his extraordinary talent to each one of his dresses.

During my first journey to Calais, I discovered the Cité de la Dentelle, a wonderful museum, as well as the impressive machines that produce this gossamer-like material with its elegant patterns. How surprised I was to see fragile and delicate lace, still a fashion essential today, emerging from those indescribable blocks of steel.

The exhibition, masterfully produced by Catherine Join-Diéterle, reveals the grace of Cristóbal Balenciaga’s creations, a magician and enchanter in the field of feminine beauty." Hubert de Givenchy.

Exhibition Catalogue Balanciaga Master of Lace, presented at the Cité de la Dentelle et de la Mode, Calais (17 april - 30 august 2015) and at the Foundation-museum Cristobal Balenciaga, Getaria (Spain), in 2016.