PARIS– It was unclear in December 2022 if the creative director Demna would weather the storm of controversy whipping around Balenciaga.
The French luxury brand was pilloried for being exploitative after its holiday campaign showed images of children with teddy bears in bondage-evoking straps.
One photo showed a court document upholding a Supreme Court decision condemning child pornography.
Outraged influencers destroyed Balenciaga gear; Kim Kardashian waffled in her support for the label; sales dipped.
The brand, owned by luxury conglomerate Kering, said any association was unintentional and apologized repeatedly.
Persons:
influencers, Kim Kardashian
Locations:
Balenciaga