[In-depth look at fashion controversies]

In April 2026, Balenciaga once again detonated public opinion in the global fashion circle with its iconic provocative gesture. This time, they targeted the most common "Liberation Shoes" on the streets of China - the pair of green rubber shoes that carry the memories of generations.

When this pair of national old shoes, which sold for only a few tens of yuan, was deconstructed, reshaped, and appeared in Balenciaga's shows and stores at a high price of several thousand yuan, a fierce debate about "beauty and ugliness," "earth and fashion," and "homage and appropriation" quickly fermented on social media.

1. Design deconstruction: A violent reshaping of "sensation of high quality"

Balenciaga’s “Liberation Shoes” are not simply replicas. Designer Demna Gvasalia has given this classic shoe a drastic makeover with her signature "destruction aesthetic".

Material upgrade： The original rough canvas upper was replaced with top-grade cowhide with an aged effect, retaining the classic military green tone and vulcanized sole, but the texture has undergone earth-shaking changes.

restructuring： The toe is deliberately enlarged, giving it an awkward and edgy silhouette； The sole is thickened and incorporates the brand's iconic "tire sole" element, giving this pair of old shoes an unprecedented sense of volume and future.

Details subvert： The most eye-catching thing is the huge "Liberation" logo made of metal on the side of the shoe, and the Balenciaga label sewn on the tongue. This method of forcibly juxtaposing civilian symbols with luxury brands is full of strong visual impact and irony.

2. Public opinion storm: Is it "aesthetic bullying" or "cultural tribute"?

Once the shoe was released, it sparked polarizing discussions on the Chinese Internet.

Positive point of view： “This is real fashion! ”Supporters believe that Balenciaga has keenly captured the popular code of "trendy to the extreme". The high-end transformation of old objects in national memory is a kind of intelligent cultural appropriation. It breaks down the class barriers of fashion and makes "everyday" become "extraordinary".

Opposition view： “This is clearly 'aesthetic bullying'! ”Opponents angrily pointed out that this design is a cheap consumption and arrogant appropriation of China's local cultural symbols. They believe that Balenciaga has simply put its own label on a cheap symbol and then sold it at a sky-high price, which is essentially a "cultural robbery" rather than a true tribute.

3. Cultural reflection: The “Law of Circulation” in the Fashion Circle”

Regardless of the controversy, the popularity of Balenciaga's "Liberation Shoes" once again confirms the unbreakable "law of circulation" in the fashion circle.”: Fashion is a huge cycle.

From Gucci’s “veteran cadre style” glasses, to LV’s “cement bag” handbags, to today’s “Liberation Shoes,” luxury brands seem to be increasingly keen on finding inspiration from urban life. By "upgrading" the "earthy" elements, they create a strong sense of contrast and topicality, thereby attracting the attention of young consumers.

Behind this phenomenon is Generation Z consumers’ ultimate pursuit of “uniqueness” and “rebellious spirit.” They are tired of cookie-cutter “perfection” and instead embrace “imperfect” designs with flaws, controversy and a sense of story.

4. Industry Enlightenment: Local design’s “awakening moment””

The controversy over Balenciaga’s “Liberation Shoes” has also sounded the alarm for Chinese local design.

When our classic elements are "snatched" by international big names, where are our own designers? In fact, in recent years, more and more national fashion brands have begun to draw inspiration from traditional culture and have launched many excellent works. But it is undeniable that we still lag behind top international brands in terms of brand narrative and global influence.

This controversy may be an opportunity to inspire more local designers to explore those cultural treasures that have been ignored by us and use modern design language to tell our own fashion stories. After all, the most national is the most worldly.