How was it made? Constructing Balenciaga’s historically inspired evening dress

Working with students from the London College of Fashion, we’ve created digital animations to show how three of Cristóbal Balenciaga’s iconic designs were constructed. Created through skilful draping of the finest silk taffeta, “Almost air-borne“ was how Vogue described this dress. Great swathes of fabric, supported by hoops, are drawn towards the back from the centre front seam. The skirts are shaped through ’bagging out’, which creates spacious voids which fill with air as the wearer walks. At the hem are ties which knot above the knee, lifting and ballooning the hem for yet more drama. ’Balenciaga: Shaping Fashion’ was on display at the V&A from 27 May 2017 until 18 February 2018. Find out more: