Balmain

Founded in 1945 by Pierre Balmain, the house quickly became known for its sculpted silhouettes, dramatic lines, and a flair for theatrical elegance. His designs combined disciplined tailoring with rich embellishment—sharp shoulders, cinched waists, and a strong sense of line brought to life through embroidery, texture, and detail. Balmain helped shape the visual language of postwar Paris, dressing women who wanted to be seen. 
In the years after Pierre’s passing, the house was led by designers who each left their mark while staying close to its core. Oscar de la Renta brought softness and couture polish in the early 2000s, while Olivier Rousteing, since 2011, has amplified the brand’s identity with bold proportions, military influences, and a more global, high-impact approach. Through these shifts, Balmain’s foundations remain unmistakable—opulent, structured, and designed with dramatic precision.