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.

Balmain fashion for sale on 1stDibs.

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.

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Questions About Balmain

Is Balmain black owned?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
No, 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.
Is Balmain haute couture?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 18, 2024
Yes, 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.
Who is Balmain's designer?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 18, 2024
Balmain’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.
Where is Balmain manufactured?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Balmain 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.
Is Balmain French?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Yes, 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.
How do you pronounce Balmain?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 18, 2024
Balmain 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.
Who owns Balmain Paris?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 18, 2024
Balmain 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.
What is the Balmain brand?
2 Answers
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
Balmain 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, 2022
The 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.
What is Balmain Paris?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 18, 2024
Balmain 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.
Where is Balmain located?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
The 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.
Who is Balmain?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 18, 2024
Balmain 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.
Is Balmain in Dubai Mall real?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMay 3, 2024
Yes, the Balmain in Dubai Mall is real. There is a Balmain flagship boutique located on the ground floor of Dubai Mall. In the "store locator" section of the United Arab Emirates version of Balmain's official website, the location of this flagship store is listed as follows: Financial Center Road, The Dubai Mall, Fashion Avenue, Ground Floor.

Balmain, an internationally celebrated postwar fashion label, was founded in 1945 by French fashion designer Pierre Balmain. Find vintage Balmain evening dresses, jackets and other clothing and accessories offered by expertly vetted sellers on 1stDibs.
Are Balmain and Pierre Balmain the same?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMay 13, 2024
Pierre Balmain was the founder of Balmain, an iconic haute couture house based in Paris, France. Under creative director Olivier Rousteing, the brand introduced an affordable diffusion line named for its founder in 2011.

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.
Is Balmain streetwear?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 18, 2024
No, 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.
How do I get Balmain x H&M?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
The Balmain x H&M collaboration was a limited edition collection launched in 2015. The collaboration is no longer in production. However, secondhand options are available through authorized retailers. Browse a selection of authentic Balmain garments on 1stDibs.
Is Pierre Balmain a luxury brand?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMay 13, 2024
Balmain is the name of a luxury brand founded by French couturier Pierre Balmain in 1945. Pierre Balmain is also the name of one of Balmain’s diffusion lines.

Launched in 2011 under Balmain creative director Olivier Rousteing, the diffusion line was largely inclusive of apparel intended for casual wear and offered at affordable price points. It targeted a younger segment of buyers.

Shop a collection of vintage Balmain on 1stDibs.
What is a Balmain dress?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
A 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.
How do Balmain hoodies fit?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Balmain 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.
How do Balmain dresses fit?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Some 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.
How do I clean a Balmain blazer?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 18, 2024
The 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.
How do Balmain shirts fit?
2 Answers
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
The 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, 2024
Balmain 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.
How do I style a Balmain blazer?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Styling 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.
Who designs Balmain jeans?
2 Answers
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
Olivier 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, 2022
The 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.
Where can I buy Balmain jeans?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Balmain 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.
Are Balmain sunglasses polarized?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Sometimes. 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.
Is Balmain real leather?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Yes, 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.
What was Pierre Balmain known for?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Pierre 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.
Does Balmain repair clothes?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
No, 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.
Is Balmain still popular?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertAugust 15, 2024
Although trends vary over time, Balmain is typically still popular year after year. 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 brand's sharply tailored blazers that nip in at the waist, delicate stilettos and ultra-feminine evening dresses are wardrobe basics for the 21st-century woman, and many fashionistas clamor for the brand’s t-shirts, military-style jackets and denim. Explore a wide range of Balmain pieces on 1stDibs.
How can I wear a Balmain jacket?
2 Answers
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
How 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, 2022
How 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.
Where are Balmain shoes made?
2 Answers
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
Balmain 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, 2022
While 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.
Where can I buy a Balmain T-shirt?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 28, 2024
You 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.
Do Balmain jeans stretch?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Sometimes. 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.
Who makes Balmain suits?
2 Answers
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
Olivier 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, 2022
The 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.
Do Balmain blazers run small?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Yes, Balmain blazers are known to run small, so you may want to order a size up for a just-right fit. Check the official sizing chart on the Balmain website to find specific measurements to help you make the right choice. Shop for authentic Balmain blazers from top boutiques worldwide on 1stDibs.
Did Balmain create biker denim?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 18, 2024
No, Balmain did not create biker denim. Biker denim was first introduced as a functional option for protective clothing for motorcyclists. Balmain biker denim jeans, however, with their bold zipper detailing and eye-catching slim-fit cut, have been a fashion favorite for years. The iconic French haute couture house reportedly helped popularize the look among celebrities and influencers all over the world.

The use of denim in garments has been traced back to 17th-century France, when farmers began wearing a heavy cotton twill cloth as workwear. Most credit Levi Strauss, the founder of Levi Strauss & Co., for bringing denim into vogue in the U.S. and abroad beginning in the late 19th century.

On 1stDibs, find a range of denim apparel from some of the world's top boutiques.