Balmain
French
From the voluminous skirts of the post-World War II “New Look” favored by Hollywood icons like Audrey Hepburn and Marlene Dietrich to the sleek, skinny jeans seen on Nicki Minaj, Kid Cudi and every Kardashian, clothes from the House of Balmain have long been mainstays in celebrity wardrobes.
The son of a dressmaker and a drapery salesman, Pierre Balmain was born in 1914 in southeastern France and formed an interest in fashion at an early age. His mother wanted her son to be an architect — but the principles of design and structure Balmain learned in his brief studies at the École des Beaux Arts served him well throughout his career.
Balmain founded his now-iconic label in 1945. Alongside fellow couture titans Christian Dior and Hubert de Givenchy, Balmain’s postwar take on luxe dressing featured bell-shaped skirts falling from slender waists, structured jackets over sheath day dresses and embellishments like fur trim; he called the look “Jolie Madame.” The Duchess of Windsor was an early fan, prompting an aristocratic following.
Balmain was among the first to offer French looks to the American market. Since Pierre Balmain’s death in 1982, the design reins have been handed to luminaries such as Oscar de la Renta and Olivier Rousteing, an alum of Roberto Cavalli who was installed as creative director at the label in 2011.
Today’s Balmain has more in common with the master’s original haute couture than you might expect: sharply tailored blazers that nip in at the waist, delicate stilettos and ultra-feminine evening dresses are wardrobe basics for the 21st-century woman, too. Lovers of couture history will also prize the fluid, easy sketches from the master’s own hand they’ll find on offer here, while fashionistas clamor for the brand’s t-shirts, military-style jackets and skinny jeans.
Whether you’re a colonel in Rousteing’s “glamour army” or you fancy yourself a “Jolie Madame,” a Balmain piece — from the 1960s or even last season — will add a bold, sexy note to your look. Daytime or night, Balmain feels right now.
Find vintage Balmain dresses, skirts, shoes and other garments and accessories on 1stDibs.
| Average Sold Price |
| $593 |
| Related Designers |
Balmain Blue Distressed Tie-Dyed Logo Hoodie Size XL
By Balmain
Located in London, GB
CONDITION is Very good. Hardly any visible wear to hoodie is evident on this used Balmain designer resale item.
Details
Blue
Cotton
Long sleeves hoodie
Tie dye d...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary British Balmain
Balmain Blue Buttoned Lace Up Denim Mini Dress Size L
By Balmain
Located in London, GB
CONDITION is Very good. Minimal wear to dress is evident. Some marks and discolouration on the inside lining and the denim outer fabric. There is some tarnishing to the metal hardwar...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary British Balmain
BALMAIN Mirrors Beige Clutch
By Balmain
Located in Paris, FR
Superb clutch from Balmain in beige leather with mirrors
Condition: very good
Made in France
Collection: evening clutches
Materials: lamb leather, mirrors
Interior: lining in natura...
Category
Late 20th Century French Balmain
Green Satin Ava Platform Sandals Size IT 39.5
By Balmain
Located in London, GB
CONDITION is Never worn, with tags. No visible wear to sandals is evident on this new Balmain designer resale item. This item comes with original box.
Details
Green
Satin
Sand...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary British Balmain
Balmain x H&M Runway Beaded 36.5 Gladiator Embroidered Heels BM-S06013P-0002
By Balmain
Located in Downey, CA
A combo of Tribal Beads and rocking Straps. These shoes zip up the back of the ankle. The zipper has silver metal hardware with a black suede pull tab for easy on/off. There is no mi...
Category
2010s Italian Balmain
Balmain 'Patricia' Clutch in Aged Off-White Embroidered Leather
By Balmain
Located in Paris, FR
Superb Balmain 'Patricia' clutch in aged off-white leather fully embroidered with gold, gold metal parts, mirrors and pearls. Small inside pocket.
It can be worn both during the day...
Category
2010s Balmain
Balmain Black Cotton Jean Pants, Size 40
By Balmain
Located in Beverly Hills, CA
Product details:
The pants feature satin finish fabric with gold tone hardware and skinny style with low rise waist.
Category
2010s Balmain
Balmain Tweed Open Jacket
By Balmain
Located in London, GB
Balmain Tweed Open Jacket
Black slim-fit jacket detailed with all-over white thread tweed pattern.
Detailed with signature gold embossed buttons to the front and cuffs.
Size – 36FR
C...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Balmain
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Find an extraordinary range of authentic Balmain fashion available on 1stDibs. If you’re browsing our collection of unique vintage and designer fashion to elevate your daily look or to introduce new colors to the dazzling formal wear in your wardrobe, this designer’s body of work includes elements of blue, red, orange and other tones. Customers who are interested in this designer might also find the work of Emanuel Ungaro, Karl Lagerfeld, and Christian Lacroix appealing. On 1stDibs, find haute couture, vintage and designer Balmain fashion from top boutiques around the world. Balmain fashion prices can differ depending upon time period and other attributes. On 1stDibs, the price for these items starts at $101 and tops out at $12,200, while the average work can sell for $940.
Questions About Balmain
- Is Balmain black owned?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022No, Balmain is owned by the investment firm Mayhoola for Investments, which is based in Qatar. It is currently headed by creative director Olivier Rousteing, a Black designer. Shop for expertly authenticated Balmain products from top boutiques around the world on 1stDibs.
- How do Balmain biker jeans fit?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Sizing of Balmain biker jeans can vary based on the style, so it is best to check the sizing chart on the brand’s website for specific measurements as you shop for a particular style of biker jeans. Browse a selection of properly vetted Balmain biker jeans from top boutiques on 1stDibs.
- Do Balmain jeans stretch?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Sometimes. Many styles of Balmain jeans offer comfortable stretch in their material. This is usually identified in the name of the particular style of Balmain jeans. Shop a variety of expertly authenticated Balmain jeans from top boutiques around the world on 1stDibs.
- Does Balmain repair clothes?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022No, Balmain does not offer clothing repair services. Balmain does offer a return service for new items that arrive damaged or defective, as long as they are notified within 20 days of you receiving the item, and as long as it is returned unused with tags attached. Browse a wide selection of Balmain clothing from top sellers on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022The key factor in identifying fake vs. real Balmain jeans is the level of quality. Fake Balmain jeans may feel lighter, have messy stitching and come in sub-standard packaging. Find a selection of Balmain jeans on 1stDibs that have been expertly vetted to ensure authenticity.
- How can I wear a Balmain jacket?2 Answers1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022How you wear a Balmain jacket is largely a matter of personal preference. Not just for the office, the brand's popular double-breasted blazer pairs well with everything from dresses to leather leggings to tailored shorts to classic denim. You'll find a range of Balmain jackets on 1stDibs.1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022How you style a Balmain jacket is a matter of preference. This is a versatile garment, and Balmain offers many styles of jackets and blazers. For a casual look, pair a Balmain jacket or blazer with distressed denim jeans, a graphic tee and white sneakers. For an evening out on the town, your black Balmain blazer will dazzle with a simple black skirt. Whether looking for a stylish cropped fit or the perfect oversized layer, browse a wide range of authentic Balmain garments from some of the world’s top retailers on 1stDibs.
- What is a Balmain dress?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022A dress designed by Balmain promises exceptional quality in materials and design. The designs are inspired by power and confidence, and are well known for flattering structured silhouettes. Stud detailing is commonly featured on Balmain dresses. Shop a variety of Balmain dresses on 1stDibs.
- Where are Balmain shoes made?2 Answers1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022Balmain makes most of its shoes at carefully vetted factories in China that are experienced in producing luxury footwear. In the past, Balmain manufactured its shoes in France and Italy. On 1stDibs, you can shop a collection of Balmain shoes.1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022While Balmain footwear is designed in France, the majority of Balmain shoes are made in China. Some of the brand’s leather styles are crafted in Italy. Shop a collection of Balmain footwear from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
- What is the Balmain brand?2 Answers1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022Balmain is a French fashion house that opened in 1945. The full name of the company is Pierre Balmain, S.A., after founder Pierre Alexandre Claudius Balmain. Although the brand produces a full range of apparel and accessories, its leather jackets and blazers are especially well known. On 1stDibs, shop a selection of Balmain.1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022The Balmain brand is a French luxury fashion house founded by Pierre Balmain in 1945. The current creative director is Oliver Rousteing, who was 25 years old at the time of his appointment. Prior to Balmain, Rousteing was the creative director for the women’s ready-to-wear collection at Roberto Cavalli. Find an assortment of Balmain apparel from the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
- Who makes Balmain suits?2 Answers1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022Olivier Rousteing makes Balmain suits. As the creative director, he is responsible for designing all of the pieces produced at the brand's in-house factories. He took on the role in 2011. You can find a selection of Balmain apparel on 1stDibs.1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022The creative director of Balmain is Oliver Rousteing. Balmain is known for its impeccable tailored fits that add polish to any ensemble with military-inspired details, such as dramatic shoulders and gold-tone buttons. Browse a wide range of authentic Balmain suits from some of the world’s top retailers on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 28, 2024To spot a fake Balmain T-shirt, you’ll want to pay attention to how the label’s logo appears on tags and, if applicable, on the front of the shirt. A fake Balmain T-shirt will present a dizzying array of different fonts and spacing errors (tags on fake shirts may even include spelling errors). These inconsistencies can appear on its wash instruction tag, the collar label or directly in the graphic on the front of the shirt. How the shirt was made matters, too. Each impeccable stitch on a genuine Balmain T-shirt will appear even, and there won’t be any detectable irregularities. If you notice flaws in the craftsmanship of your piece, you may have a fake Balmain T-shirt on your hands. Browse a selection of vintage Balmain shirts on 1stDibs.
- How do Balmain shirts fit?2 Answers1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022The fit of a Balmain shirt is dependent on its silhouette and fabric. Refer to the measurements and product description on the brand’s website for recommendations on sizing. If you do a fair amount of online apparel shopping, experts suggest that you gather accurate body measurements using a tape measure. Shop a range of Balmain shirts from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.1stDibs ExpertFebruary 29, 2024Balmain shirts fit well according to online testimonials. The shirts offered by the French luxury brand generally feature a modern semi-fitted cut. Dress shirts may be a slim fit but they aren’t constricting or skinny. If you prefer a looser fit, you may wish to purchase a Balmain shirt one size larger than what you normally buy. Size charts are available on Balmain's official website. On 1stDibs, find a selection of vintage Balmain shirts.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Yes, while the majority of Balmain’s ready-to-wear collection is manufactured in Europe, most of Balmain’s footwear is made in China with some of the leather styles produced in Italy. Shop a collection of Balmain sneakers from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Sometimes. Balmain offers many styles of polarized sunglasses as well as non-polarized sunglasses to suit your needs and personal preferences. Polarization is typically identified in the name or features of the particular style of sunglasses. On 1stDibs, find a range of authentic Balmain sunglasses from top sellers.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Yes, styling your Balmain jacket depends on your personal preference. If you are opting for a more casual look, or you simply want to show off your layers underneath, wearing a Balmain jacket open can be a fun option. Browse a range of Balmain jackets on 1stDibs.
- How do Balmain dresses fit?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Some Balmain dresses tend to run small and you may need to order up a size to find the right fit. Check the Balmain size chart on their website before ordering to ensure your dress will fit properly. Browse a range of Balmain dresses from top boutiques around the world on 1stDibs.
- Where can I buy Balmain jeans?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Balmain features an official website you can shop from. They have also partnered with retailers around the world that offer their jeans. You can browse 1stDibs to find a range of authentically vetted Balmain jeans from some of the top boutiques worldwide.
- Who designs Balmain jeans?2 Answers1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022Olivier Rousteing designs Balmain jeans. He became the creative director of the brand in 2011. Rousteing worked for Roberto Cavalli for six years before coming to Balmain in 2009. You can shop for a variety of Balmain apparel on 1stDibs.1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022The creative director of Balmain is Oliver Rousteing. Balmain denim continues to be one of the most highly coveted garments from the brand due to their high-end tailoring and unique silhouettes. Browse a wide range of authentic Balmain jeans from some of the world’s top retailers on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertMarch 18, 2024Pierre Balmain was the founder of Balmain, an iconic haute couture house based in Paris, France. In the postwar years, Balmain became known for bell-shaped skirts falling from slender waists, structured jackets over sheath day dresses and embellishments like fur trim. Pierre died in 1982, and the company is now owned by Mayhoola for Investments.
From the dresses favored by Hollywood icons like Audrey Hepburn and Marlene Dietrich to the sleek, skinny jeans seen on Nicki Minaj, Kid Cudi and every Kardashian, clothes from the House of Balmain have long been mainstays in celebrity wardrobes. Shop a collection of vintage Balmain from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs. - Who is Balmain?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertMarch 18, 2024Balmain is an iconic French couture house founded by Pierre Balmain in 1945. The brand became known for its luxurious bell-shaped skirts and sophisticated cocktail dresses that drew on elegant ballet dancer costumes. It was among the first to offer French looks to the American market. Today’s Balmain has more in common with the master’s original haute couture than you might expect: sharply tailored blazers that nip in at the waist, delicate stilettos and ultra-feminine evening dresses are wardrobe basics for the 21st-century woman, too. Shop a collection of vintage Balmain from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
- How do you pronounce Balmain?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertMarch 18, 2024Balmain is pronounced “bahl-MAH.” The “n” at the end is silent. French fashion designer Pierre Balmain established his now-iconic label in 1945. Alongside fellow couture titans Christian Dior and Hubert de Givenchy, Balmain’s postwar take on luxe dressing featured bell-shaped skirts falling from slender waists, structured jackets over sheath day dresses and embellishments like fur trim. Shop a collection of vintage Balmain from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
- Where is Balmain manufactured?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Balmain is mostly manufactured in France, where the brand is based. They also have a variety of manufacturing centers in other countries including Italy, Bulgaria, Japan, China and Poland. Shop a collection of expertly authenticated Balmain products from top boutiques on 1stDibs.
- Who is Balmain's designer?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertMarch 18, 2024Balmain’s designer is Olivier Rousteing, the iconic French couture house’s current creative director. Rousteing is an alum of Roberto Cavalli. He was installed as Balmain’s creative director in 2011. Shop vintage Balmain clothing and accessories on 1stDibs.
- Is Balmain French?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Yes, Balmain is a French fashion house first established in Paris in 1945. It was founded by French designer Pierre Balmain, and is known for its luxurious quality and design. Shop a collection of authentic Balmain pieces from top sellers worldwide on 1stDibs.
- Where is Balmain located?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022The headquarters of Balmain are located in Paris, France, where the brand was founded in 1945 by designer Pierre Balmain. There is an array of official Balmain stores worldwide. Browse a collection of expertly vetted Balmain products from top boutiques on 1stDibs.
- What is Balmain Paris?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertMarch 18, 2024Balmain Paris is an iconic French couture house founded by Pierre Balmain in 1945. Balmain, which became known for its bell-shaped skirts and sophisticated cocktail dresses that drew on elegant ballet dancer costumes, was among the first to offer French looks to the American market. Since the death of the founder in 1982, the design reins at the company have been handed to luminaries such as Oscar de la Renta and Olivier Rousteing, an alum of Roberto Cavalli who was installed as creative director at the label in 2011. Shop a collection of vintage Balmain from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
- Is Balmain streetwear?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertMarch 18, 2024No, Balmain is not usually considered streetwear.
Streetwear generally refers to casual, comfortable and stylish apparel and accessories. It's heavily influenced by popular culture, and pioneering streetwear brands such as Stüssy and Supreme are forever intertwined with surfing and skating (thanks to high fashion's love affair with streetwear, black hoodies and graphic tees have certainly seen their fair share of runway time). Balmain, on the other hand, is a haute couture house founded by Pierre Balmain in 1945 that gained international acclaim for its elegant postwar gowns and full, luxurious skirts.
However, as often as today's Balmain offers ultra-feminine evening dresses and sharply tailored blazers, there are bold and edgy designs that aren't commonly associated with legacy haute couture labels. The brand's Resort menswear collection, which debuted in 2019, offered plenty of hoodies, dazzling graphic patterns and denim. And fashionistas can't help but clamor for the brand's t-shirts, military-style jackets and biker jeans.
On 1stDibs, find a collection of vintage Balmain clothing and accessories. - 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 28, 2024You can buy a Balmain T-shirt directly through the brand’s website. Balmain T-shirts can also be found via resellers and at a variety of authorized retailers. With respect to visiting physical boutiques and storefronts, a Balmain store locator is available on the legendary French luxury brand’s official website. Browse a wide range of vintage Balmain shirts from some of the world’s top boutiques on 1stDibs.
- Who owns Balmain Paris?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertMarch 18, 2024Balmain Paris is owned by a Qatari investment fund called Mayhoola for Investments. The iconic French couture house was founded by Pierre Balmain in 1945. Shop a collection of vintage Balmain from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
- Is Balmain haute couture?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertMarch 18, 2024Yes, Balmain is haute couture. The term haute couture refers to high-end luxury wear that has been custom-fitted and constructed by hand from start to finish. The world of haute couture is governed by the Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode in France.
Fashion designer Pierre Balmain established his now-iconic label in 1945. In the postwar years, Balmain became known for bell-shaped skirts falling from slender waists, structured jackets over sheath day dresses and embellishments like fur trim.
From the dresses favored by Hollywood icons like Audrey Hepburn and Marlene Dietrich to the sleek, skinny jeans seen on Nicki Minaj, Kid Cudi and every Kardashian, clothes from the House of Balmain have long been mainstays in celebrity wardrobes. Shop a collection of vintage Balmain from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs. - How do Balmain hoodies fit?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Balmain hoodies tend to have a more fitted cut, so you may want to order up a size if you prefer a baggier look. Check the sizing chart on the Balmain website for specific measurements to ensure you find the right size. Shop a collection of authentic Balmain hoodies from top boutiques around the world on 1stDibs.
- Is Balmain real leather?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Yes, Balmain is indeed real leather. It uses a variety of leather materials in its different designs from lambskin and nubuck to calfskin. You can shop a collection of vintage and contemporary Balmain couture from some of the world’s top boutiques on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Pierre Balmain was a French fashion designer most known for founding his fashion house Balmain. Balmain’s designs are described as sophisticated and elegant, and remain one of the most sought after garments in high-fashion. Find vintage and contemporary Balmain designs from some of the world’s top boutiques on 1stDibs.
- How do I style a Balmain blazer?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Styling your Balmain blazer depends uniquely on your personal style and preference. This classic piece is simple to pair with a skirt, jeans or leggings. Wear it buttoned for a put-together vibe or open for a more relaxed style. Shop a range of authentic Balmain blazers from top sellers on 1stDibs.
- How do I clean a Balmain blazer?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertMarch 18, 2024The best way to clean a Balmain blazer depends on the style and material of the blazer. The care tag inside of the blazer can likely provide optimal cleaning instructions to keep your garment looking its best. On 1stDibs, find a wide variety of vintage Balmain blazers from some of the world’s top sellers.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Yes, some Balmain products are made in China. Balmain’s headquarters are in Paris, France, where the brand designs its entire collection. Certain haute-couture and ready-to-wear garments are crafted in Europe, while certain items, such as footwear and small accessories, are manufactured in China. Browse a selection of authentic Balmain goods on 1stDibs.
- How do I spot a fake Balmain jacket?2 Answers1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022You can tell if a Balmain jacket is real by looking at the inside. A real Balmain will have a Balmain logo tag sewn on the inside. Always purchase Balmain garments from a reputable seller to ensure authenticity. Shop a collection of authentic Balmain from some of the world’s top boutiques on 1stDibs.1stDibs ExpertFebruary 28, 2024To spot a fake Balmain jacket, examine the tag on the inner collar. Although label styles have varied over the years, most genuine Balmain collar labels have the brand name printed in the iconic font. It will be spaced evenly and the lettering will be crisp and clear. Balmain will be positioned above the word "Paris.” Every single authentic Balmain tag will have the name of the luxury house spelled correctly (when it comes to fakes, this is an obvious tell). Additionally, the hardware will feel durable and robust, and the stitching on real Balmain pieces will show great care. Each impeccable stitch will appear even, and there won’t be any detectable irregularities. If you notice flaws in the craftsmanship of your piece, the jacket is likely fake. Find a range of vintage Balmain jackets on 1stDibs.
- Is Balmain a high-end brand?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertMarch 25, 2024Yes, Balmain is a high-end brand. Founded by Pierre Balmain in 1945, the haute couture house was among the first to offer French looks to the American market. Alongside fellow couture titans Christian Dior and Hubert de Givenchy, Balmain’s postwar take on luxe dressing featured bell-shaped skirts falling from slender waists, structured jackets over sheath day dresses and embellishments like fur trim; he called the look “Jolie Madame.” The Duchess of Windsor was an early fan, prompting an aristocratic following. Many celebrities past and present, from Audrey Hepburn to all of the Kardashians, have worn Balmain. On 1stDibs, shop a collection of Balmain apparel and accessories.