Meghan Markle, Anne Hathaway Attend Balenciaga’s Romantic Spring-Summer 2026 Paris Debut

On Saturday evening, attendees flocked to the Balenciaga show during Paris Fashion Week, held in a historic chapel dating back to the reign of King Louis XIII. The venue, part of the Laennec headquarters owned by Kering, previously hosted a retrospective for Demna, Balenciaga’s former designer who now leads at Gucci.

Pierpaolo Piccioli Takes Creative Lead

Pierpaolo Piccioli, the newly appointed creative director, emphasized the importance of honoring the legacy of his predecessors. His vision aims to merge the heritage of Balenciaga with a fresh perspective. Piccioli, who relocated from Rome to Paris, is recognized for his compassionate approach and romantic sensibility in fashion.

The Star-Studded Front Row

The show attracted a glamorous audience, including:

• Anne Hathaway
• Kristin Scott Thomas
• Krit Amnuaydechkorn
• Baz Luhrmann
• Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex

This marked Markle’s debut at Paris Fashion Week, where she wore an elegant ensemble featuring a white cape over a silky shirt and trousers.

Collection Highlights

The presentation featured designs that harked back to Balenciaga’s iconic styles while incorporating modern twists. The opening look showcased a sleek black version of the brand’s signature “sack” dress, styled with statement gloves and unique wraparound visors.

• Bulbous tops and skirts reminiscent of the cocoon silhouette.
• Textured dresses with dramatic trains.
• Updated versions of classic bags, including the City and Rodeo.
• New styles, such as a bowler bag adorned with Balenciaga’s monogram.

Piccioli introduced experimental pieces such as midriff-baring tops and V-slit designs. He expressed his desire to reconcile past influences with contemporary culture.

A Nod to the Past

Piccioli made it clear that respecting fashion history is vital. He aims to blend Demna’s streetwear innovations with his distinct aesthetic. His collection featured vibrant colors like violet, cyan, and highlighter yellow, common in his past work at Valentino.

Emphasis on Womenswear and Materials

This collection exclusively showcased womenswear, emphasizing the essence of Balenciaga’s legacy, which focuses on empowering women through fashion. The designer also highlighted the use of gazar, a lightweight yet structured fabric introduced by Cristóbal Balenciaga in 1958.

Concluding Thoughts

Pierpaolo Piccioli’s debut at Balenciaga comes during a challenging time for Kering, with declining sales threatening the brand’s stability. However, early reactions suggest that his appointment signals a promising shift for the company.