Cristóbal Balenciaga (1895 - 1972)
Cristóbal Balenciaga Eisaguirre was born in Spain January 21st, 1895. He
opened The House of Balenciaga in Paris in 1937. For 31 years until his
retirement in 1968, The House of Balenciaga operated as a couture
business.
Regarded as a master of 20th century fashion, Balenciaga's classic designs
have inspired the fashion industry throughout the 20th century. His early
training as a tailor remained as a constant influence, and much of his work
reveals his native Spanish culture.
Balenciaga liked a natural drape and a
structure that was correct in proportion. Thus the fabrics he chose tended
to be those that held their shape naturally, requiring a minimum of work
from a seamstress.
Balenciaga was the inspiration for designers Hubert Givenchy,
André Courrèges, Emmanuel Ungaro, and Oscar de la Renta.
He died on March 23rd, 1972, from a heart attack.
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