Nicolas’ questions to Charlotte
Do you remember the first time we met?
It must have been at the first fashion show of yours that I attended. I was told that you would like me to come. I must have gone backstage, but the fashion show crowd and my shyness at the time resulted in me simply staring at my feet.
What was it about Balenciaga that touched you most?
The fact that I met you and discovered your style, which made me want to be more feminine.
Is there a certain dress that took your breath away?
The outfit that I wore for the opening of the Cannes Film Festival, when I was on the panel of judges. I felt protected, like in a military uniform.The dress that you designed for me for the Césars ceremony when I was president, because you made it just for me!And a white dress in parachute material, because it was like an unexpected wedding gown for me, as I’ve never been married.
Why did you accept to be the image of Balenciaga Paris?
Because you asked me. I’ve never really worn fragrance and I’m proud to have been the inspiration for this one.
You are so discreet. What will it be like to become the image of afragrance?
I know that I’m surrounded by the Balenciaga image. I have total faith in your vision. I feel that you reveal who I am before even realizing where you are taking me. This fragrance is like the dresses that you design for me and that I feel so wonderful wearing.
Do you approach this like a role to play?
No. Balenciaga is like a second home. Representing your fragrance is an evolution that takes place naturally in the relationship I have with the Balenciaga style. This fragrance has a strong personality, like your clothing: classic, feminine and refined. And I really like the idea that you created it with me in mind.
How does one incarnate a fragrance?
By being myself and not being affected by the way you or Steven Meisel look at me.
You were so moving in Cannes… Since this film, are you no longer afraid of anything?
It’s true that it allowed me to go further than ever before in terms of an unaccustomed yet desired immodesty (both physical and emotional). I think it broke down my complexes, because the stakes were elsewhere.
When does Balenciaga suit you best?
Probably when Yvan is looking at me.