The Power of Undressing: How Nicole Kidman Redefined Suiting at Balenciaga’s Farewell Couture Show
In a season where fashion loyalties are being tested and allegiances declared, Nicole Kidman arrived at Balenciaga’s Fall 2025 couture presentation with the kind of unwavering confidence that only comes from knowing exactly where you stand. The Academy Award-winning actress descended upon the Parisian venue Wednesday evening, delivering a masterclass in contemporary power dressing that felt equal parts homage and rebellion.
Kidman’s calculated approach to the evening’s dress code spoke volumes about her understanding of fashion’s current climate. Working with her longtime stylist Jason Bolden, the “Nine Perfect Strangers” star reimagined the traditional pantsuit blueprint with a daring twist that would make even the most seasoned fashion insiders take notice. Her choice to wear a structured black blazer as a top—sans undergarments—represented more than mere styling bravado; it was a deliberate commentary on modern femininity’s refusal to be confined by convention.
The blazer itself, with its pronounced ’80s power shoulders and deliberately oversized silhouette, created a striking juxtaposition against the acres of exposed skin that stretched from her sternum to her ribs. By securing only a single button, Kidman transformed what could have been a conservative boardroom staple into something altogether more provocative and contemporary. The accompanying low-rise, loose-fitting trousers in matching black further emphasized the look’s studied nonchalance—a carefully orchestrated casual elegance that few could execute with such aplomb.
Her choice of footwear proved equally considered. The Balenciaga Avenue pumps, retailing for $1,190, featured the house’s signature ultra-elongated pointed toe and razor-thin stiletto heel crafted from glossy patent calfskin leather. The shoes’ architectural precision, complete with the subtle BB logo nestled at the heel’s base, provided the perfect punctuation to an ensemble that balanced aggression with sophistication.
The timing of Kidman’s appearance carries particular weight as the fashion world prepares to bid farewell to Demna Gvasalia, Balenciaga’s visionary creative director who has helmed the house for a transformative decade. Wednesday’s couture presentation marked the Georgian designer’s final collection for the storied maison, making the star-studded front row—which included Lauren Sánchez, Katy Perry, Cardi B, and Lori Harvey—a veritable who’s who of Balenciaga devotees paying their respects.
The actress’s recent fashion choices have consistently championed the house’s aesthetic vision. Her memorable Cannes Film Festival appearance in May saw her embrace a motorcore-inspired ensemble featuring a fitted black leather jacket and mid-rise dark-wash jeans, proving her commitment to the brand’s edgier sensibilities extends beyond red carpet obligations.
As Kidman graciously signed autographs and greeted fans outside the venue, her sleek blonde hair perfectly straight and her berry-stained lips catching the camera flashes, she embodied the kind of effortless glamour that has defined her decades-long career. Her trendy black sunglasses and compact box clutch served as understated finishing touches to a look that will undoubtedly be dissected and celebrated in equal measure.
In an industry where fashion statements often speak louder than words, Kidman’s presence at Demna’s farewell felt like both a thank you and a promise—a recognition of creative brilliance and an assurance that true style transcends any single designer’s tenure.
