-SPECIAL- “BALENCIAGA” 10’s-20’s Exaggerated oversized checked wool gown coat with quilted lining

“BALENCIAGA” 10’s-20’s Exaggerated oversized checked wool gown coat with quilted lining

From BALENCIAGA, founded in 1917 by Cristóbal Balenciaga, which has been expanding the possibilities of couture through the space created between clothing and the body and through forms that are not constrained by conventional tailoring—here we present an extraordinary piece that elevates the traditional check pattern into bold proportions.

The classic expression layered with an ivory softness and black-and-gray lattice, harmoniously matched with the beautiful, gown-like silhouette that envelops the body—this exceptional piece transforms the impression of your outfit simply by wearing it.

Above all, what is most striking is the volume of the body, which steps far beyond the measurements of a typical long coat. With a spacious structure that extends the shoulder line outward and fabric that falls away from the body, it forms a BALENCIAGA-like silhouette that makes the wearer’s outline look larger by one, even two sizes. Because the piece generously uses empty space in the fabric while keeping long vertical lines, you can feel a sense of refinement even within its impressive size.

At the neck, a shawl collar—designed to be large enough to reach the shoulder tips—is placed, and by deeply overlapping the left and right collars, a bold diagonal line is formed at the chest area. When the collar is opened, the three-dimensional volume that gently frames the face area stands out; when the collar is brought inward, a rich sense of volume is created at the neckline. Even with the same coat, you can enjoy changes in expression depending on how you wear it. The balance where straight lines of the body intersect with the soft curves of the collar is also exceptionally appealing.

The sleeves are designed to extend broadly to the sides while maintaining a generous width, with clear ease from the shoulder through to the arm. When the arms are lowered, the fabric falls naturally; when you move, the check pattern area appears to expand itself—so even everyday gestures carry a sculptural beauty. The variation in length created by the overlap of the front and the front hem also adds depth to an otherwise flat check pattern.

And the fabric used on the exterior contains 97% wool; the intersecting check of fine and bold lines brings a warm texture to the surface. It is the contrast between the neat pattern reminiscent of traditional British-style outerwear and the volume that challenges conventional ideas of sizing that makes this coat truly special. By presenting a familiar pattern in a new form, it invites you to look again at classic clothing.

When you shift your gaze to the inside, part of the upper body is finished with black diamond quilting, revealing a functional, refined expression that differs from the soft check of the outer fabric. The padding is made of polyester, and the lining is made of cupro, so it offers a structure that supports rich volume, along with a smooth, comfortable lining texture that makes it easy to slip your sleeves on when layering. Even in areas that are difficult to see from the outside, it combines different materials—one more sign of the meticulous attention to tailoring.

For the period, it can be positioned as a product from around 2017 to 2021, based on clues such as the brand tag with a black logo on a white background, a multi-language quality tag, and a construction that combines wool-dominant outer fabric with quilting. In BALENCIAGA of the late 2010s, attempts to expand familiar forms of clothing on a large scale and reinterpret the proportions of the wearer themselves drew attention. You can feel this piece’s strongly experimental spirit from that era as well.

The check-patterned coat has long been loved as a wardrobe staple, but this piece has been redesigned as the main character—keeping that approachable charm while being tailored to let you enjoy fashion more freely. It is an exceptional item you will want to pick up, whether you are looking to express your individuality through the boldness of its silhouette, or you want to add a clear sense of personality to a classic look.

For styling, it goes without saying that pairing the coat with slim slacks and long boots emphasizes the coat’s volume. It is also wonderful to layer it with drapey wide trousers and a simple shirt, creating a relaxed line. Wear it boldly over a dress or a set-up, and you will add an elegant look with a modern, powerful edge—something you can enjoy as your own style regardless of gender. This is an exceptional piece that completes an MOOD-like aesthetic that tells your individuality through the shape of your clothing itself rather than by adding decoration.

Please take advantage of this opportunity.