Demna, the creative director of Balenciaga, was captivated by Mina’s music in 2011, and now, 13 years later, their mutual admiration has blossomed into a unique collaboration: Balenciaga Music. This project, set to launch on September 19th, is more than just a fashion collection; it’s a heartfelt tribute to the iconic Italian singer.
Balenciaga Music x Mina features a capsule collection dedicated to the “Tiger of Cremona,” as Mina is affectionately known. The collection includes a limited-edition T-shirt adorned with Mina’s iconic face and a complete list of her 106 albums on the back. Accompanying the T-shirt are sunglasses inspired by Mina’s signature eye makeup. Both items include NFC chips offering exclusive access to Mina’s new single, *L’Amore Vero*, a preview of her upcoming album scheduled for release in November.
This collaboration marks a significant milestone as it is the first time Mina has officially partnered with a fashion house for merchandise and released new music in collaboration with a brand. In an exclusive interview with Vogue Italia, Mina’s son and producer, Massimiliano Pani, and Demna discuss the origins of their creative alliance and the shared values that bind them.
Demna reveals that his fascination with Mina began in 2011 when one of her songs resonated deeply with him. His admiration quickly turned into an obsession, delving into her performances, albums, and live concerts. He credits Mina’s music for helping him navigate a difficult period in his life, finding solace in her ability to express raw emotion.
The conversation delves into the specifics of the collection and the inspiration behind it. Demna reveals the genesis of the T-shirt design, emphasizing the collaboration with Mina and the thrill of receiving her handwritten signature on the package.
The sunglasses, a nod to Mina’s iconic style, incorporate a laser-engraved signature and a QR code that unlocks a preview of *L’Amore Vero*. Pani explains the significance of glasses in Mina’s life, highlighting her severe myopia and the clever way she incorporated them into her signature look, transforming a challenge into a source of strength.
The Balenciaga Music x Mina project also features a curated playlist created by Mina herself. It’s not a compilation of her greatest hits, but a personal selection of songs she loves and listens to frequently. This playlist takes listeners on a journey through her musical world, showcasing her eclectic tastes, from Vivaldi to Bruno Mars, Cole Porter to Aerosmith, and Battisti to Sinatra.
This unique collaboration offers a glimpse into the worlds of two creative giants, united by a shared appreciation for artistic expression, innovation, and the enduring power of music and fashion. Demna and Mina, bound by a shared birthday and a commitment to pushing boundaries, are rewriting the rules of collaboration, offering a compelling testament to the enduring power of artistry across generations.
