Imitation in the Opposite Direction

Demna Gvasalia knows how to turn imitations in the opposite direction – think of his DHL T-Shirt for Vetements or the Bazar shopper for Balenciagaicon. His newest take on transforming a completely unsophisticated non-luxurious item into a must-have piece for fashion victims around the globe is his latest accessory for Balenciaga Men and targets originally the male customer. Playing with consumerism, he sent down the runway the so-called ‘Arena Extra-Large Shopper Tote Bag‘ which looks like a copy of the iconic IKEA‘s ‘Frakta Tote‘ in shape, size, and color.

To the left the Balenciaga for $2145.00, to the right IKEA for $0.99.

The only difference? The absence of the IKEA logo on the handles which makes sense, of course, the material (the IKEA version is made from 100% recyclable polypropylene whereas the Balenciaga tote is made of leather), and not surprisingly the price.

I would really like to get into Demna’s head, creative genius or making fun of the fashion world? I somehow tend to believe the latter. What do you think?

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Balenciaga and IKEA

My Look: Swan Lady

Snow in April in Switzerland, really? So back to sweater weather. I love playful animal prints and Stella McCartney‘s swan motif has been one of my favorites lately. In combination with a great pair of wide pants, it looks sophisticated and not too girly at all.

My look: Double breasted tweed coat by Saint Laurent, ruffle-trimmed intarsia wool sweater and matching iconFalabella swan embroidered faux leather bag, both by Stella McCartney, wide grey wool pants by Blumarine, Oxford-style ankle booties by GucciHorsebit blue topaz diamond white gold ringicon by Gucci Fine Jewellerychoker and matching earrings, both by Dior.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht