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China Doll Gladiator Fashion

Jennifer Connelly for Balenciaga

— January 9, 2008 — Marketing
Can fashions get any stranger? Balenciaga is always known for throwing a few over-the-top pieces in their collections, but the dress worn by Jennifer Connelly in the Spring/Summer 2008 campaign is downright bizarre.

Nicholas Ghesquière has been hoping to get the actress in his campaigns for years, and now his wish has finally come true. But what type of frock has he laced her into? The first time this dress paraded down the runway, it was paired with the same peculiar boots worn by by the 37 year old in the print campaign.

“She was the inspiration for the [catwalk] show. I had this vision of her,” Ghesquière said. “Even for the casting, I only wanted brunette girls. Her beauty and her character are so inspiring.”

Plastered in the boldest, brightest floral prints, the dresses look a little like traditional Chinese garb, yet so perfectly structured, they could be made of plastic. The puffed shoulders and ballooned hem make the waist appear miniature, and the black feathered gathering in the centre draws the eye inward, further emphasizing the hourglass shape.

“She had an opinion on the brooch we put on one dress, the best colors for her skin,” Ghesquière said.

And the gladiator boots? All I can say is, I wouldn't want to see these in combat.

Check out Balenciaga's entire Spring/Summer 2008 runway show below. 
Trend Themes
1. Bizarre Fashion Trends - Exploring unconventional and eccentric fashion choices that capture attention and push boundaries, providing opportunities for unique and disruptive innovation in the fashion industry.
2. Influence of Celebrities in Fashion - Recognizing the impact of celebrities wearing distinctive outfits in fashion campaigns, creating opportunities for designers to collaborate and create avant-garde styles that reflect the celebrity's unique character and inspire new trends.
3. Redefining Traditional Garments - Blending cultural influences and modern design techniques to reinvent traditional apparel, offering opportunities to create innovative and eye-catching garments that merge heritage with contemporary fashion aesthetics.
Industry Implications
1. Fashion Industry - Incorporating unconventional styles and celebrity collaborations to drive brand recognition, attract attention, and engage with fashion-forward consumers who crave bold and distinctive fashion choices.
2. Celebrity Marketing Industry - Leveraging celebrity endorsements and collaborations in fashion campaigns to captivate audiences, showcase the celebrity's influence on fashion trends, and create opportunities for disruptive and boundary-pushing designs.
3. Cultural Fashion Industry - Exploring the fusion of traditional and modern elements in fashion, creating innovative garments that celebrate diverse cultural influences and appeal to consumers seeking unique and globally-inspired fashion choices.
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