Demna Gvasalia on cultural influence
From ”나는 패션에 있어서 공산주의자다.“ | 뎀나, 캐시 호린 Rethinking Heritage · · 패션엘릭서
“My approach to fashion is deeply influenced by my background and personal experiences, which differ from the traditional Western European or Japanese designers. This perspective allows me to challenge norms and bring new ideas to the industry.”
On , Demna Gvasalia, Creative Director at Balenciaga, spoke about cultural influence during ”나는 패션에 있어서 공산주의자다.“ | 뎀나, 캐시 호린 Rethinking Heritage on 패션엘릭서.
About Demna Gvasalia
Demna Gvasalia, creative director of Balenciaga and co-founder of Vetements, has described his approach to fashion as a form of activism, stating that he sees his role as a designer as one that questions and critiques society. In a 2025 interview, he said he considers himself "a bit of a communist at heart," expressing a desire for his designs to be accessible to a wider audience while acknowledging the inherent conflict of operating within the luxury sector. He has also discussed the tension between creative integrity and commercial success, noting that Balenciaga's success depends on balancing these opposing forces. Gvasalia's work has continued to generate discussion. A 2024 panel on his Balenciaga haute couture collection noted that his designs are divisive, with some panelists praising the craftsmanship and others questioning whether certain pieces, such as hoodies and t-shirts, warrant the couture designation. In a 2024 documentary, his early life in war-torn Georgia and his subsequent displacement were cited as influences on his perspective, with Gvasalia himself stating that his background allows him to challenge norms. He has also addressed past controversies, such as the Vetements DHL hoodie, which he defended as a tribute to everyday workers.