Demna

Demna, born in Georgia in 1981, is the creative force reshaping fashion’s future while paying homage to its past. After studying international economics in Tbilisi, he followed his passion for fashion to Antwerp’s Royal Academy of Fine Arts, graduating with a degree in Fashion Design in 2006. It was a pivot that would lead him to become one of the most defining voices in modern luxury.

In 2014, Demna co-founded Vetements—a brand that quickly became a symbol of anti-fashion chic. Vetements blurred the line between streetwear and high fashion, challenging conventions and gaining an almost cult-like following. In 2015, Demna was appointed Artistic Director at Balenciaga. By September 2019, he had stepped away from Vetements to focus entirely on his role at Balenciaga.

His debut collection for Balenciaga in Fall/Winter 2016 was a bold reimagining of Cristóbal Balenciaga’s legacy, combining utilitarian elements with a couture sensibility. Under his direction, Balenciaga has evolved into more than a fashion house—it’s a cultural phenomenon, blending high concept with viral appeal. In 2021, Demna reintroduced haute couture at Balenciaga, reconnecting with the brand’s roots while pushing the boundaries of what couture means today.

With awards like the 2016 International Ready-to-Wear Designer and the 2017 CFDA International Designer of the Year, Demna has proven his influence is as far-reaching as his vision. At Balenciaga, he continues to challenge the fashion establishment, making bold statements that are as much about culture as they are about clothes.