SS11 FW Roundup: Balenciaga

Balenciaga was definitely one of those shows that were surprising this season, as no one was expecting Nicholas' dark take on life. His collection was very punk, a trend that has reappeared a few times on the runway this season, most notably in Burberry Prosrum and Balmain.
His use of bright reds and blues were balanced with the blacks, and his textures were also an interesting choice. His woven leathers reminded me of Bottega Veneta, one of their bags I'm still sporting at this very moment.
He also included a few pieces that incorporated plastics and leather, to create structured, interesting shapes I haven't seen this season.
I was even fascinated by the shoes at one point, which had what seemed like bushels of bare twigs, or brambles.

Mixed Prints

Today we get our first look at street style which is pouring in. I'm really in love with this because of the mixed-print going on. Nicolas Ghesquiere from Balenciaga first turned mixing prints chic, and now a slew of designers are following on his trail (Cacharel, Erdem, Proenza Schouler). The key to getting this right is pretty much minimalism. You can't have too much going on, or it really will seem like you picked your outfit out in the dark. The two patterns should compliment each other, not compete for your eye.
Thanks Jennifer for the pic!