Balenciaga’s Creative Director, Demna Gvasalia is once again using his influence to throw light on the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine, now with this handsome Balenciaga charity t-shirt.
The Georgian designer, who experienced life as a refugee, took a stand in the early days of the conflict, dedicating Balenciaga’s Fall/Winter 22 campaign to the war-torn country. He then went on to announce several donations in partnership with Balenciaga’s partner, the World Food Program.
Now Gvasalia is using his and Balenciaga’s far-reaching influence to raise funds in support of Ukrainian refugees. Demna and Balenciaga have designed a t-shirt, in collaboration with United24. According to United24, a charitable fund overseen by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, all the proceeds from these t-shirts will go towards Ukrainian refugees.
Demna had lived through the horrors of refugee life in Georgia, standing up for the cause is more of a personal matter. “It is an honour for me to become an ambassador for the UNITED24 platform,” the designer shared. “I know and feel the pain that the Ukrainians are going through very well. I thought a lot about how I can help Ukraine and all the refugees who want to come back home. That’s why I chose to focus on the humanitarian Rebuild Ukraine Direction and its cause. The special Balenciaga t-shirt will become a messenger.”
Ukraine’s President Zelenskyy took the time to personally thank Gvasalia, saying, “Thank you for your support, it is very valuable. We must keep the world’s focus on Ukraine to help rebuild our country.”
The proceeds from the “Balenciaga Charity T-Shirt” will be given to Rebuild Ukrainian Direction. The direction is focused on the renovation of critical infrastructures such as roads, hospitals, and schools, which would assist the refugees in returning home and restarting their lives.
The unisex tee is long-sleeved and crafted from 100 per cent vintage cotton. Graphic prints feature on the front, back and sleeves, and include a “Glory to Ukraine” print, the Ukrainian coat of arms, the country’s flag, and a QR code that allows donating through United24.
The tee is priced at $204 and is available for preorder here.
