The house of Pierre Balmain has been a staple of French couture fashion since the late1940s. After World War II, Balmain made a name for himself dressing the world’s royalty and Hollywood starlets. Along with Christian Dior and Cristobal Balenciaga, he has helped bring feminine elegance and glamour into the spotlight. Decades after his death, Pierre’s legacy and vision are still carried on.
Throughout the years five different fashion designers have had the chance to rein the Balmain house, leaving their exquisite marks on the label. Last year Olivier Rousteing has become the newest creative director. Born and raised in France, Olivier attended ESMOD, a Parisian fashion school. After spending five years at Roberto Cavalli he got an opportunity to work under Christophe Decarnin, Balmain’s head designer at that time. Once there, Olivier didn’t have to wait very long to get his big break. With only three years in the 26 year old fashion prodigy has earned the title every designer dreams of.
In the span of just a year, Olivier has drastically changed Balmain’s aesthetic, giving it a rock ‘n’ roll edgy feel while still embracing its feminine beauty. Balmain has once again become the talk of every fashion event and on the cover of every fashion magazine. In his recent Cuban inspired Spring 2013 collection Rousteing has brought back the sky-high geometric 80s shoulders. A variety of shapes and textures integrated with knits were implemented throughout the collection. Short dresses and plunging necklines created a sense of sexuality while at the same time reflecting the youth of the designer.
Even though the futuristic looks of the Spring 2013 line have received mixed reviews it has left everyone eagerly craving more. It is extremely exciting and motivating to see what this young king of Balmain has up his sleeve for the seasons to come.