Square in style

With a mix of traditional and offbeat designs, Balenciaga’s latest collection catches Tengku Sofiah Aishah’s attention

BALENCIAGA has come into mainstream media attention only in the last decade but this brand is hardly a flash in the pan. It is steeped in heritage since the days of Cristobal Balenciaga, a revolutionary designer of his time.

In keeping with tradition, most of the handbags in the collection are square-ish in design.

A plain design tote goes with a printed top. Dual straps can be put on shoulders for convenience. The glossy bright colours add urban flavour to the aesthetic design.

BE A MESSENGER

While messenger bags have become a fashion statement lately, I still have my reservations about carrying them. They remind me of schooldays when youngsters carry sling or messenger bags to class and I don’t go for a schoolgirl look anymore.

I love the simplicity of the oversized square tote. With only a signature zippered front pocket, it still manages to steal attention and exudes elegance.

They say orange is a happy colour and it is exactly what you need to brighten up your outfit, especially when most of your colleagues wear monochrome suits.

My favourite pick is the large, violet flap bag. The handbag with sculptured flap closures and shoulder strap is absolutely stunning.

The silver hardware tab ensures your valuables are safe and secure. If I am not a sloppy eater, I’ll also go for the white one. The red tab is simply eye-catching. Offering a chic look for the modern age, Balenciaga handbags are not only suitable with casual outfits, but also with formal wear.

UNUSUAL FOOTWORK

The shoes stand out in their unusual heels and the label has outdone itself again with its latest collection. The shoes are so atypical that I don’t even know how to describe them.

Perhaps a cross between chunky heels and stilettos? There are many things going on in one shoe. The unique heel, fancy design and animal skin pattern.

I suggest plain clothes to go with these Lady Gaga-like shoes. I don’t know about fashionistas but I prefer good old stilettos. The bizarre shoes are not for work unless you work for a fashion magazine.

High-waisted pants of the ‘70s join bell-bottomed polka dots in making a comeback. The pants are a popular choice because they highlight the female waist, identify curvy hips and accent legs.

However, these pants can be a bit tricky. Tall women wearing high-waisted pants can get away with flat shoes whereas short women should opt for heels or platform shoes.

BIG AND BOLD

While I love anything red, the subtle creases and oversized front pocket of a pair of pants in Balenciaga’s latest collection are a bit of a put-off. The pants are eye-catching enough on their own without being brightly coloured or patterned. Tuck your shirt in to show off the upper hem of the pants and accessorise with a belt or scarf through the belt loops.

Blazers are no longer worn to keep your body warm, but are about style and luxury. I like the Balenciaga touch on the lapel. It sets the blazer apart without losing its identity as a blazer.

Padded shoulders and three-quarter sleeves are still in style and they give an edgy look. Colourful tops are always fun to experiment with.

Violet large flap shoulder bag

Layered skirt and plain top with padded shoulders

Balenciaga’s shoes are part unique, part bizarre

A smart blazer over a bright top

Dual strap tote for convenience

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Square in style

With a mix of traditional and offbeat designs, Balenciaga’s latest collection catches Tengku Sofiah Aishah’s attention

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