Demna Gvasalia, who founded conceptual luxury label Vetements left the company in 2019 to pursue other artistic ventures. Even without Vetements, the designer is still a force in fashion as his role of creative director at Balenciaga remains. With his focus now fully on the brand, Gvasalia is able to tackle one of the biggest announcements to come from the house this year — the return to couture which the label hasn’t shown since 1968. The unveiling of Balenciaga’s new couture will happen sometime in July 2021 with men’s pieces included.

Balenciaga’s 2020 remained steady with more experimental designs — robust outerwear shapes, sportier cuts and daring footwear were just some of its product highlights. There were shoe collaborations alongside Vibram and Tyrex that touted conceptual designs. The year was also a time for social and environmental reflection for the Georgian designer. Not only was Balenciaga’s FW20 presentation a commentary on climate change but the brand also set up a fund for annual donations that would combat racist brutality.