Teh Enduring Allure of Couture: A Conversation with Carmen Busquets
Carmen Busquets,a name synonymous with impeccable style and a discerning eye,embodies a philosophy that transcends fleeting trends. She champions the enduring value of couture, not just as clothing, but as an investment in artistry and sustainability. Her recent re-wearing of a Balenciaga couture gown to a VIP Kering dinner perfectly illustrates this point.
Busquets’ thankfulness for design runs deep,cultivated over decades of collecting exceptional pieces.She fondly recalls building her wardrobe with creations from legendary houses. John Galliano, Thierry Mugler, Claude Montana, Yves Saint Laurent, Alaïa, and Chanel have all graced her closets, representing a dedication to acquiring “the hard-to-get pieces.”
Rewearing Couture: A Statement of Values
Choosing to revisit a cherished couture piece, rather than opting for something new, wasn’t merely a fashion choice. It was a deliberate statement about craftsmanship and responsible luxury. Busquets believes in extending the life cycle of beautiful garments, demonstrating that couture is meant to be lived in and re-loved. She even noted the gown had previously enjoyed a private debut at a birthday party, without the fanfare of social media.
For this second appearance, Busquets expertly balanced the gown’s grandeur with carefully selected accessories. Oversized, blackened-gold hoops, adorned with glittering moval- and baguette-cut diamonds from Nikos Koulis, added a contemporary edge. Avant-garde knuckle-duster rings by Loree Rodkin completed the look, showcasing her passion for collecting exceptional jewelry. Balenciaga shoes grounded the ensemble, maintaining a cohesive aesthetic.
A Global Citizen’s Approach to Glamour
Busquets divides her time between Paris, London, and Switzerland, a lifestyle that reflects her cosmopolitan spirit. however, her approach to getting ready remains remarkably grounded. She prefers a calm and focused environment, eschewing the typical pre-event frenzy.
Instead of a bustling hotel suite, she prepared for the Kering dinner in the downtown Manhattan home of her partner, sports-media executive John Skipper.She collaborated with her longtime makeup artist,Luis Guillermo Duque,a partnership spanning nearly four decades.
Busquets prioritizes inner peace during her glam sessions. She often chooses classical music or meditation to create a serene atmosphere. “When you are wearing couture, you have to be so careful with the dress,” she explains. ”It’s not like when you go to a hotel.”
The Influence of Spiritual principles
Beyond fashion, Busquets’ life is guided by a deep-seated spiritual practice. She has followed the teachings of George Gurdjieff as childhood, a philosophy that emphasizes self-awareness and inner work. this commitment to mindfulness informs her entire approach to life, including her relationship with fashion.
Ultimately, Busquets’ style is about more than just clothes. It’s a reflection of her values, her experiences, and her unwavering appreciation for beauty in all its forms. She demonstrates that true luxury lies not in constant acquisition,but in cherishing and reinterpreting the pieces you already own.