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A unique coat allegedly from Balenciaga’s limited edition collection has become the center of heated discussion online. Priced at an astonishing RMB 200,000 (equivalent to $36,000), the patchwork design has left netizens divided. While some admire its high-fashion appeal, others can’t help but question its value, humorously comparing it to a beggar’s attire.
The coat, as seen in viral posts on Chinese social media platforms like Weibo and Xiaohongshu, features a vintage-inspired patchwork design with colorful fabric squares sewn onto a neutral-toned base. Its bold aesthetic and traditional-style fasteners have sparked curiosity and confusion, with many questioning whether the price tag reflects its design or just the prestige of the Balenciaga brand.
The reaction from netizens has been nothing short of dramatic. One Weibo user humorously commented, “Maybe it’s my lack of fashion sense, but wearing this feels no different than dressing as a beggar!” This sentiment was echoed by others, with one remarking, “For RMB 200,000, I could buy a house in a small town. Why would I spend it on this?”
Another popular comment quipped, “Is this coat selling fashion or a social statement? I can replicate this with some thrift shop finds and glue.” The humor extended to memes, with some photoshopping images of street beggars wearing similar designs, playfully questioning whether Balenciaga had drawn inspiration from street culture too literally.
However, not everyone was critical. Fashion enthusiasts defended the brand’s bold vision, arguing that high fashion often pushes the boundaries of conventional aesthetics. A Xiaohongshu user commented, “It’s not about the coat; it’s about the statement. Balenciaga has always been about making you think differently.” Another added, “Art and luxury are subjective. This is for collectors and people who understand avant-garde fashion.”
The controversy touches on a recurring theme in high fashion: the balance between artistry and accessibility. While brands like Balenciaga often justify steep prices with craftsmanship, exclusivity, and brand prestige, critics argue that some designs cross the line into absurdity.
Some experts weighed in, noting that Balenciaga’s creative director, Demna Gvasalia, is known for embracing irony and social commentary in his work. “This coat might not be just about style,” a fashion journalist commented. “It could be a critique of consumer culture, highlighting how value is often detached from practicality.”
But even with these justifications, many netizens feel alienated by such extravagant pricing. A Douyin user summarized the debate perfectly: “This isn’t fashion for ordinary people. It’s a luxury flex for the ultra-rich.”
Ironically, the online backlash may be working in Balenciaga’s favor. The coat’s controversial design has catapulted it into the limelight, generating unprecedented attention for the brand. Some observers believe this is intentional. “Balenciaga thrives on being talked about,” remarked a marketing analyst. “Controversy is their currency.”
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