Cardi B Takes Center Stage: Cardi B, renowned for her red carpet glamour, recently stole the spotlight in a surprising turn as a runway model for Balenciaga. The rapper made her fashion show debut on a star-studded catwalk along Los Angeles’ South Windsor Boulevard. Wearing a bold floor-length blue coat and dazzling diamond jewelry, Cardi B showcased Balenciaga’s new pre-fall 2023 collection.
The event marked Balenciaga’s first-ever show in LA and featured a diverse range of looks, ranging from baggy “neo-grunge” ensembles to structural evening gowns. The collection also signaled a shift towards activewear, incorporating shorts, bra tops, and leggings. Balenciaga’s promotional notes highlighted the designer Demna Gvasalia’s interpretation of LA’s fashion codes, blending cinematic influences and character-driven aesthetics.
Cardi B’s runway appearance added a touch of star power to the event, and her off-the-shoulder faux-fur coat, priced at $7,950, became a standout piece from the collection. The rapper, known for her eclectic fashion choices, has received praise from fashion insiders, including Vogue’s Anna Wintour.
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The glitzy Balenciaga show took place just a year after the brand faced controversy over controversial ad campaigns. Demna Gvasalia apologized for images featuring children in bondage gear, and later, the brand distanced itself from props featuring a child pornography ruling. Despite the previous backlash, Hollywood stars, including Salma Hayek, Zooey Deschanel, and Eva Longoria, attended the show.
Notably, Balenciaga collaborator Kim Kardashian, who had criticized the brand’s previous ad campaigns, was in attendance, along with half-sister Kendall Jenner. The front row also saw Nicole Kidman, announced as a Balenciaga brand ambassador on the same day. Danish actor and model Brigitte Nielsen made a striking return to the runway at 60, showcasing an all-black ensemble with thigh-high platform boots.
Cardi B’s runway debut for Balenciaga not only added a touch of celebrity glamour to the event but also reinforced the brand’s ability to navigate controversy and maintain its standing in the world of high fashion.