In the extensive universe of fashion, certain stories aren’t just meant to be told—they demand to be etched into history. Published by Thames & Hudson, A Fashion Record isn’t merely a book; it’s a journey through time, an intimate exploration of the moments that have shaped the very essence of style and elegance.
Anna Balda and Maria Kublin, with their sharp vision and unparalleled sensitivity, invite us into this world by capturing the evolution of fashion through unforgettable snapshots. This book is an ode to creativity, audacity, and the visionary figures who dared to defy conventions to reinvent beauty. Each page of A Fashion Record is a vibrant testament, a living archive of the trends that have defined generations, while also unveiling the hidden stories behind iconic fashion shows, legendary photo shoots, and landmark collaborations. Balda and Kublin offer us more than just a collection of images and texts: they present a visual symphony where fashion reveals itself in all its splendor and complexity.
Among these tales, the contribution of Tom Kublin, a towering figure in fashion photography during the 1950s and 1960s, stands out. Kublin, particularly noted for his work with Cristóbal Balenciaga, played a pivotal role in crystallizing Balenciaga’s aesthetic in the public imagination. Through his lens, Kublin immortalized the essence of haute couture during a period when fashion was seeking new forms of modernity and elegance. It is this legacy that Maria Kublin, his daughter, along with Ana Balda, sought to share through a book published by Thames & Hudson, featuring rarely seen images for the first time.
Cristóbal Balenciaga, often revered as “the master” by his peers, was known for his perfectionism and sculptural approach to clothing. His creations were characterized by architectural lines, a keen sense of proportion, and an almost monastic rigor in their execution. Balenciaga shunned excessive ornamentation, opting instead for pure silhouettes and impeccable construction, seeking a timeless aesthetic far removed from fleeting trends. It was in this context that Kublin’s photography translated this philosophy into a visual language.
Kublin’s approach to fashion photography was not merely about documenting Balenciaga’s creations; it was about capturing their soul. With a masterful use of chiaroscuro, minimalist compositions, and a sharp eye for detail, Kublin amplified the volumes and structures of the garments. His photographs presented clothing as works of art, often set against neutral or carefully chosen backdrops that ensured the viewer’s eye remained focused on the essence of the design.
Kublin’s images have become emblematic of Balenciaga’s oeuvre. His ability to capture the movement of a silk cape or the perfect drape of a black crepe dress highlighted the genius of the couturier. These photographs transcend simple documentation; they are studies in form, light, and material. They underscore Balenciaga’s technical mastery while creating a subtle dialogue between photography and fashion.
Through his manipulation of shadows and perspectives, Kublin further accentuated the sculptural dimension of Balenciaga’s creations. His models were often posed to enhance the geometric lines of the clothing, transforming each photograph into an artistic composition. This photographic style aligns with Balenciaga’s pursuit of a pure, almost ascetic fashion, where every detail is meticulously considered.
Maria Kublin’s words resonate deeply: “My goal is to give my father the recognition he deserves. Through this journey, I feel closer to him, and for that, I will be eternally grateful.”
The legacy of the collaboration between Kublin and Balenciaga extends far beyond its time. Kublin’s photographs helped enshrine Balenciaga in the annals of fashion history, influencing not only future generations of fashion photographers but also designers. The way Kublin captured the purity and austerity of Balenciaga’s creations set a new standard in haute couture representation. By freezing these moments of timeless elegance, he not only documented the couturier’s work but also contributed to building his myth.
In essence, the collaboration between Tom Kublin and Cristóbal Balenciaga exemplifies the symbiosis between fashion and photography. Together, they created a visual corpus that continues to resonate within the contemporary fashion world. Kublin’s images remain living testaments to the elegance, craftsmanship, and rigor that defined Balenciaga.
Carole Schmitz
Balenciaga – Kublin, A Fashion Record
Ana Balda, Maria Kublin
Thames & Hudson
Hardcover
Pages: 194
Artwork: 163 illustrations, 20 in color
Size: 9.6 in x 12.5 in x 0.8 in
ISBN-10: 050002653X
ISBN-13: 9780500026533
$75.00
