Balenciaga Collection FW1965 [Left] vs. Maison Margiela Couture FW2015 [Right] | Inspiration or Imitation

John Galliano has recently showcased his second artisanal collection for Maison Margiela, during Paris fashion week. The exhibition of Maison Margiela's Haute Couture Autumn/Winter 15 collection showcased some of the designers masterful craftsmanship in an exciting show that included men clothed in dresses, shoes with circular blades, sackcloths, and influences of impressionist art.

It takes a lot for designers to be noticed these days and the collection from Galliano drove a postive  impression after the designers four year exile from fashion, following his antisemitic outburst in 2011. Resulting in a lawsuit between the House of Dior & Galliano (Feb 2015) for wrongful dismissal.

Yet, admist all the applauds of creative genius for the looks strutted down the Parisian runway this July. We did notice one design that bears a striking similarity to the 'Petale Dress' from Balenciaga's 'Invierno collection 1965.' Raising those not so easy to answer questions about designer inspiration and direct imitation.

We'd like to know your thoughts?