Balenciaga has shifted its focus to children’s charities instead of continuing its lawsuit against an organization it claimed was responsible for recent controversial photoshoots.
On Friday, President and CEO Cedric Charbit took to social media to release a statement saying “Balenciaga has decided not to pursue legal action” against North Six worth $25 million.
Given the current fashion landscape, it’s no surprise that Balenciaga would pivot from its usual strategy after its “current process for content validation has failed.” The company added that it would create an image board to evaluate the appropriateness of all content.
The company says it is also working with an agency to more accurately assess its projects and make other changes across the company.
He says the company has set aside a “significant fund” for grants to go to organizations that benefit the protection of children. He apologises for what happened and adds that Balenciaga does not tolerate “any kind of violence or hatred message.”
The photos in question had one where a child held BDSM-themed bears, and another featuring what appeared to be legal docs related to a Supreme Court case dealing with child pornography.
Balenciaga sued North Six for its involvement in a project that damaged Balenciaga’s reputation. However, North Six stated it had no creative input and therefore wasn’t responsible for any damage done.
Celebrities, including Bella Hadid and fashion industry influencers, reposted messages of support for North Six.