Balenciaga creates its first 'habit vert'

By

Jennifer Braun

Published
May 14, 2023

Balenciaga has created its first academic dress for French literary critic, writer and professor, Antoine Compagnon.

Compagnon was introduced into the Académie Française on Thursday, and commissioned Balenciaga to create the 'habit vert', which he wore for the inauguration.

In particular, the ceremonial outfit consists of a black or navy suit embroidered with green and gold olive branches, and features a sword.

“It is an honor for Balenciaga to have become for the first time a part of the Académie Française’s illustrious history by creating the habit vert for Monsieur Antoine Compagnon’s induction,” said Balenciaga, creative director, Demna.

“We are proud to have been involved in this special occasion and to contribute to the legacy of the House of Balenciaga and its couture ateliers.”

According to Balenciaga CEO, Cédric Charbit, it is the first time since the house was founded in 1917, that it was asked to produce a bespoke suit for the academy.

“As the CEO of Balenciaga, I am particularly proud of the collaborative aspects of this project, between the innovative spirit of the house, the institutional Académie Française and the association with Boucheron revealing the dynamic creative synergy within Kering and all inputs coming from the different teams of the brands especially the ateliers,” he added.