₹84,000 for a torn jacket? Balenciaga’s fashion move sparks online debate
Updated: Jan 16th, 2026
Balenciaga is once again dominating conversations on social media with a product that many are calling confusing, bold, and shocking all at once. After previously going viral for items like chip packet–style bags and tape-inspired accessories, the luxury brand has now introduced a “Destroyed” jacket that looks heavily worn and torn.
However, as the visuals went viral, users on social media pointed out that it was actually a part of “Destroyed” collection by US brand Remnants, and was only on sale on Balenciaga website.
Despite the criticism, however, the jacket sold out within just 24 hours of its launch.
The jacket is priced at $950, which is roughly ₹84,000. Made with extremely distressed fabric, visible holes, and rough edges, the design challenges the traditional idea of luxury fashion. While some see it as creative and experimental, many others feel it looks unfinished and overpriced.
Soon after its release, images and videos of the jacket flooded social media platforms, especially X (formerly Twitter). Reactions ranged from disbelief to sarcasm. One user joked that the jacket looked like it belonged in a thrift store rather than a luxury showroom. Another mocked the trend by saying people could recreate the look at home using an old jacket and some rough treatment.
However, not everyone dismissed the idea. Some fashion followers explained that the jacket represents a style known as “deconstruction fashion,” where damage, wear, and imperfection are intentionally used as design elements. According to them, the jacket is meant to question what beauty and value really mean in modern fashion.
Many online users also pointed out that there are two types of buyers for such products. One group includes fashion insiders and trend followers who want to stand out and show they understand high-fashion concepts. For them, owning such a piece is about exclusivity and making a statement. The other group sees it as a conversation starter—something shocking enough to go viral, spark reactions, and gain attention online.
As expected, memes quickly followed. Several users jocked about saving money by damaging cheap jackets themselves, while others questioned whether looking worn -out is now considered fashionable.
This is not the first time Balenciaga has stirred controversy. In the past, the brand released product like extremely expensive sneakers that looked worn, a luxury trash bag-style purse, towel skirts, and even tape-like bracelets, all priced in thousand of dollars.
