"Haute couture is like an orchestra, whose conductor is Balenciaga. We other couturiers are the musicians and we follow the direction he gives." - Christian Dior

The godfather of conceptual design, a master of shape, a true fashion game changer - all are accolades bestowed upon one of the most interesting, venerated and iconic couturiers of the twentieth century: Cristóbal Balenciaga. His pureness of line, the comfort of his garments and innovative work with textiles, and volume made a huge impact on twentieth-century fashion, with creations such as the babydoll, balloon and sack dresses still influencing fashion today.

Through stunning images and captivating text, Little Book of Balenciaga depicts the work and life of Balenciaga the couturier. Fashion historian Emmanuelle Dirix examines his legacy both through tracing the Maison's artistic direction after his death, and the generations of designers influenced by the master himself.

Dirix, Emanuelle

Emmanuelle Dirix is a fashion historian and curator. She teaches at the Antwerp Fashion Academy and Manchester Metropolitan University, and has lectured at the Royal College of Art and University of the Arts London. She is the author of Unravel: Knitwear in Fashion, Fashion Sourcebook 1920s and 1930s Fashion: the Definitive Sourcebook.