Controversial luxury designer Balenciaga investing $1.8 million to open Charlotte store
The luxury retailer Balenciaga will invest $1.8 million to make its Carolina debut at SouthPark mall this year.
Balenciaga, founded in Spain and headquartered in France, will open in the former Lacoste and Tommy John locations next to Tiffany & Co., according to SouthPark mall’s website.
The store is expected to open by the end of the year, an official with mall owner and operator Simon Property Group told The Charlotte Observer on Wednesday. Simon also owns Concord Mills and Charlotte Premium Outlets.
Balenciaga sells couture and high-fashion, ready-to-wear apparel and accessories for men and women. For instance, its 3XL distressed sneakers sell for $1,120.
The $1.8 million upfit is for a 4,346-square-foot space, a building permit filed May 30 with Mecklenburg County shows. The store plans were first reported by Charlotte Business Journal.
Balenciaga is known for its high fashion and streetwear worn and advertised by celebrities like Justin Bieber.
In October 2022, the fashion company cut ties with rapper Kanye West over a series of controversial comments on social media. Two months later, Balenciaga became embroiled in its own scandal accused of sexualizing children in two controversial ad campaigns.
Balenciaga joins a growing list of luxury brands expanding at SouthPark mall including Swiss shoe and apparel retailer Bally and French perfumer Diptyque. Louis Vuitton reopened in March with additions including women’s and men’s clothing.
