Cristóbal Balenciaga faces a difficult beginning in Paris with his first haute couture collection.

In 1940, Balenciaga brings Spanish fabrics to Paris in order to keep his Maison open.

Balenciaga vs Dior: The king of haute couture in Paris feels challenged by Dior's “New Look.”

Cristóbal refines his style with semi-fitted suits and the “midi” line.

Balenciaga is commissioned to design the wedding dress for Queen Fabiola of Belgium.

Competition from prêt-à-porter and the poor quality of fabrics affect Balenciaga's sales.