Balenciaga’s allure takes a new form with its second boutique on Rodeo Drive, located a mere few steps from its original store at 418 North Rodeo Drive. Spanning two levels and featuring expansive glass panels, this luxurious retail haven boasts a sprawling 550 square meters of space.
Breaking away from conventional displays, the Balenciaga creative team has crafted an eye-catching window exhibit. Instead of traditional mannequins, they’ve adorned the display with lifelike mannequin arms clad in signature grey microsuede. These arms elegantly showcase sunglasses, mobile phones, coffee cups, bottles, wallets, and the latest Monaco chain Bag. This installation serves as a testament to the accessibility and tactile nature of Balenciaga’s new bag line.
Adjacent to this captivating display, a high-definition digital screen comes to life, featuring Isabelle Huppert, Balenciaga’s newest ambassador. The store staff, elegantly dressed in black attire and Steroid derbies, embody the brand’s experiential Raw Architecture concept. This concept prioritizes sustainability, reducing waste and resource consumption. Inside, a monochromatic theme prevails, with raw walls exposing cement bricks and untreated concrete floors.
The ceiling illuminates the store with neon lights, reminiscent of construction sites, casting a warm glow over shelves and industrial consoles. Subway tiles clad the walls of the main staircase, while bare metal racks proudly showcase the collections. Ingeniously placed corrosion and simulated wear-and-tear effects create the illusion of an indoor-outdoor fusion.
The first floor dedicates space to a remarkable collection of bags and small leather goods, artfully presented on aluminum shelves. Balenciaga’s iconic jewelry, eyewear, and a range of branded cushions and blankets find their place in glass consoles. Shoe enthusiasts can explore a lineup of shoes, sandals, boots, and glamorous clogs, all elegantly displayed at the rear of the store.
Continuing the design philosophy of the first floor, the second level opens up to a spacious bay window overlooking the bustling Rodeo Drive. Here, evening gowns and ready-to-wear pieces hang gracefully from a long aluminum rack, within a brick-clad ambiance beneath a ceiling grid.
For customers seeking comfort and style, two fitting rooms, including a VIP option, feature the same raw, mineral-inspired decor. A giant black sofa-puff offers a serene vantage point to contemplate the bustling Rodeo Drive.
With the opening of this women-focused boutique, Balenciaga’s store at 338 North Rodeo Drive has transformed into a dedicated menswear destination. Mark your calendars for December 2, when Balenciaga makes its grand debut in Los Angeles.