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In this manifesto, Haley Erickson defends Demna Gvasalia’s misunderstood legacy at Balenciaga and affirms his radical appointment at Gucci. Through sharp cultural critique, personal insight, and detailed analysis of the Balenciaga by Demna exhibition, this essay argues that Demna’s provocative approach is not only innovative—it interrogates the very idea of innovation itself. Like Cristóbal Balenciaga, who designed for the realities of his time, Demna confronts the cultural conditions of ours: superficiality, meme culture, and the commodification of aesthetics. Tracing his thematic use of volume, readymade, trompe-l’œil, and upcycling, Erickson reveals how Demna mirrors society’s absurdities while reanimating Cristóbal Balenciaga’s spirit. The piece closes by forecasting how Demna’s disruptive vision is poised to revive Gucci, a house historically fueled by drama, reinvention, and bold creative leadership. For those who get it—this is fashion that dares to shape culture, not just reflect it.
A reflection on the weight of self-imposed pressure and the paralysis of writer’s block. When emotions become overwhelming and creativity feels out of reach, sometimes the only way forward is through. This piece channels the heaviness—shame, exhaustion, internal brutality—and turns it into language. Writing not to escape the feeling, but to face it, and in doing so, loosen its grip.
No. 7 delves into the intricate relationship between the luxury fashion industry and individual self-perception. The piece examines the rise of "quiet luxury" as a marketed reaction to previous ostentatious trends, and marketing tactics that lead individuals to conflate personal identity with consumption patterns. Furthermore, it discusses the illusion of individuality in a market-driven society, where personal style is often shaped by broader economic and social forces rather than genuine self-expression.
Today marks exactly one year since I packed my life into two suitcases and moved from Minneapolis to France, seeking adventure, purpose, and growth. Navigating life abroad without knowing the language, confronting vulnerability, and embracing imperfections taught me invaluable lessons about resilience, acceptance, and self-discovery.
This piece explores the part of me that anxiously craved control and certainty about the future—and how learning to rest in the unknown has become a rite of passage toward experiencing something more beautiful.
Summer is not over. Here are three vintage luxury inspired looks to revamp your inspiration.
I reflect on my journey from addiction and self neglect towards a confusing spiritual awakening.
This post breaks down and discusses the economic and philosophical implications of an economy exclusively producing luxury goods for consumption.
This is where I find myself today. This is where you find me today. Another seed, that you are reading and I am sowing.
In this manifesto, Haley Erickson defends Demna Gvasalia’s misunderstood legacy at Balenciaga and affirms his radical appointment at Gucci. Through sharp cultural critique, personal insight, and detailed analysis of the Balenciaga by Demna exhibition, this essay argues that Demna’s provocative approach is not only innovative—it interrogates the very idea of innovation itself. Like Cristóbal Balenciaga, who designed for the realities of his time, Demna confronts the cultural conditions of ours: superficiality, meme culture, and the commodification of aesthetics. Tracing his thematic use of volume, readymade, trompe-l’œil, and upcycling, Erickson reveals how Demna mirrors society’s absurdities while reanimating Cristóbal Balenciaga’s spirit. The piece closes by forecasting how Demna’s disruptive vision is poised to revive Gucci, a house historically fueled by drama, reinvention, and bold creative leadership. For those who get it—this is fashion that dares to shape culture, not just reflect it.
A reflection on the weight of self-imposed pressure and the paralysis of writer’s block. When emotions become overwhelming and creativity feels out of reach, sometimes the only way forward is through. This piece channels the heaviness—shame, exhaustion, internal brutality—and turns it into language. Writing not to escape the feeling, but to face it, and in doing so, loosen its grip.
No. 7 delves into the intricate relationship between the luxury fashion industry and individual self-perception. The piece examines the rise of "quiet luxury" as a marketed reaction to previous ostentatious trends, and marketing tactics that lead individuals to conflate personal identity with consumption patterns. Furthermore, it discusses the illusion of individuality in a market-driven society, where personal style is often shaped by broader economic and social forces rather than genuine self-expression.
Today marks exactly one year since I packed my life into two suitcases and moved from Minneapolis to France, seeking adventure, purpose, and growth. Navigating life abroad without knowing the language, confronting vulnerability, and embracing imperfections taught me invaluable lessons about resilience, acceptance, and self-discovery.
This piece explores the part of me that anxiously craved control and certainty about the future—and how learning to rest in the unknown has become a rite of passage toward experiencing something more beautiful.
Summer is not over. Here are three vintage luxury inspired looks to revamp your inspiration.
I reflect on my journey from addiction and self neglect towards a confusing spiritual awakening.
This post breaks down and discusses the economic and philosophical implications of an economy exclusively producing luxury goods for consumption.
This is where I find myself today. This is where you find me today. Another seed, that you are reading and I am sowing.