I felt this way 100% about Demna when I first saw Vetements and his work for Balenciaga, especially the garments like hoodies and t-shirts, his footwear like the Triple S and the crocs, and the infamous Ikea bag. Balenciaga was the ultimate standard for me in fashion because of what Nicolas created and also for its original creator, Cristobal.
I did learn more about Demna by reading and watching his interviews and learning about his past - his thought process. I don't agree with a lot (most of) of what he does creatively but it helped me understand more his point of view and voice. I'm not trying to defend him because you are valid in your feelings and opinions on Demna. The only thing I will say that he is not deliberately trying to destroy the legacy of Balenciaga or trying to manipulate how people consume luxury. I know how oblivious and foolish I may sound for saying that. However, I learned more about Demna and realized he mostly references people from his past from Georgia and moving with his family around Europe in the 90s and early 2000s. This unfortunately lends itself to really unremarkable pieces, like baggy button-down shirts on the runway, plain denim jeans, and large trainer shoes. He also tries to bring ordinary objects into the realm of luxury but it often ends up clumsy and almost comical.
I get why this infuriates those of us who revere the house of Balenciaga and the history of Parisian fashion. I used to hate Demna in a way and get angry at his collections even. It was later that I decided to question how I feel and that lead me to try lending an ear to what Demna has to say. Again, I am not trying to be defensive, just saying that now I don't believe he has a dark or devious motive. He is sincere in what he does at Balenciaga, even if it is often kitsch and hypebeasts treat the brand like streetwear without knowing its history in fashion.
I will probably regret making this post because my heart is actually pounding from nervousness (anticipating huge backlash). I am just responding and having a conversation, not looking for a confrontation. One of the reasons I don't engage in forums that much.
Demna Gvasalia on Authenticity, Irony and Resistance
Demna Gvasalia on the state of contemporary youth