BALENCIAGA HOMME

As far as style statements go, few come more sophisticated and intelligent as those issued by the House of Balenciaga and their first men’s retail space reflects just that. But it’s not the macho roots of its Spanish that are evident here – the icons are androgynous size zero heroes. Bring on Boylenciaga.

The choice of location on the Left Bank is a deliberate decision to place the label far from the madding fashion pack, on a chic street better known for its ministry buildings. Following this logic further, the boutique frontage cunningly hides the fact that this is a high style menswear retail outlet – all you see is a staircase to designer heaven. Nothing so obvious as a booted and suited mannequin in the window to give the game away. This place is strictly in-crowd: ultimate destination shopping – impulse buyers need not apply.

The shopping space starts on the first floor and the ambience is clinical – low light and hi tech – with a second-floor boutique stocking ready-to-wear, leather goods, shoes, glasses and jewellery. Nicolas Ghesquière, Balenciaga’s artistic director, and artist Dominique Gonzalez-Foerster, are the design brains behind the submarine-themed interior. Get ready to dive, dive, dive and torpedo your credit card!