Balmain (fashion house)

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Pierre Balmain and the actress Ruth Ford, photographed by Carl Van Vechten, 1947

Balmain (French: [balmɛ̃]) is a fashion house that was founded by Pierre Balmain.

History

In the period following World War II, Pierre Balmain was "a king of French fashion" and outfitted stars including Ava Gardner and Brigitte Bardot and the Nicaraguan first lady Hope Portocarrero.[1] His most famous client was Queen Sirikit of Thailand.

The brand is mentioned in the 1969 song "Where Do You Go To (My Lovely)?" by Peter Sarstedt, where he says in the lyrics, "Your clothes are all made by Balmain".

After Pierre Balmain's death in 1982, the house was led by Erik Mortensen, described by Vogue as Pierre Balmain's "right hand."[1] Oscar de la Renta led the house between 1993 and 2002.[1] Under Pierre Balmain, Mortensen, and de la Renta, the house was known for its classic, luxurious designs.[1]

Around 2008 and 2009, the clothing line became extremely popular both among fashion magazines, runways and celebrities.[citation needed] His 2010 collection, shown during Paris fashion week, was said to be "totally retro" and "[brought] back the glitz and glitter of the 1970s disco era."

Until 2011, the house was led by designer Christophe Decarnin, whose vision for the house is more modern and edgier.[1] In April 2011, the fashion house announced that Decarnin was succeeded by Olivier Rousteing[2] (pronounced: [ɔ.li.vje ʁus.tɛɲ]).

As of 2012, 50% of total income is from license royalties.[3]

Head designers of Balmain

References

  1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 Yaeger, Lynn. "Balmain Nouveau." Vogue (October 2007), p254-56.
  2. ↑ Balmain Taps an Inside Man, The New York Times
  3. ↑ Chevalier, Michel (2012). Luxury Brand Management. Singapore: John Wiley & Sons. ISBN 978-1-118-17176-9. 

External links

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