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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.

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Period: 1990s
Designer: Balmain
Balmain Silk Long-sleeve Sequinned Top
By Balmain
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
Balmain - Silk long-sleeve top embroidered with black sequins. Size 38FR. Additional information: Condition: Very good condition Dimensions: Shoulder width: 40 cm - Chest: 48 cm - ...
Category

1990s Balmain

Balmain Blue Sequin and Tulle Coat
By Balmain
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
Balmain - (Made in France) Blue sequin and tulle coat. No size indicated, it fits a 38FR. Fashion show piece. Additional information: Condition: Very good condition Dimensions: Shou...
Category

1990s French Balmain

Balmain Green Tone Tweed Jacket
By Balmain
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
Balmain - Green tone tweed jacket. 40FR size. Additional information: Condition: Very good condition Dimensions: Shoulder width: 42 cm - Chest: 51 cm - Sleeve length: 64 cm - Length...
Category

1990s Balmain

Balmain Couture Dress in Silk Crepe and Transparent Black Lace, circa 1990s
By Balmain
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
Balmain - Haute Couture dress in silk crepe and transparent black lace. No size indicated, it fits a 40FR. Circa en of the 1990s/ beginning of the 2000s, under the artistic direction...
Category

1990s French Balmain

1990s Balmain silk crepe maxi dress FR38
By Balmain
Located in PARIS, FR
Balmain circa 1990 long dress in brown silk crepe embroidered with black glass beads, asymmetrical collar, long sleeves (unlined, transparent), wrap-around style skirt with an openin...
Category

1990s French Balmain

1990s Pierre Balmain Demi-Couture Cherry Blossom Embroidery Dress Coat Hat Set
By Balmain, Balmain Ivoire
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Presenting a fabulous creme cherry blossom embroidered Pierre Balmain demi-couture dress set. From the 1990s, this stunning set is comprised of a matching sleeveless dress, coat, and...
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1990s French Balmain

1990s Balmain Brown Leather and Fur Coat with Rhinestones
By Balmain
Located in Toronto, Ontario
1990s Balmain short brown coat. Dark brown matte leather with dark brown fur collar, cuffs and lining. Polished brown leather trim detail creates a contrast in texture and is embelli...
Category

1990s French Balmain

Balmain Long Brown Coat
By Balmain
Located in Capri, IT
Balmain Long Brown Coat Long brown coat by Balmain totally made in france in size 40 Composition poliestere Dark green lining and neck
Category

1990s French Balmain

Balmain Navy Blue Sleeveless Top with Gold Chains
By Balmain
Located in Capri, IT
Balmain Navy Blue Sleeveless Top with Gold Chains Balmain blue top wit gold chains all over Composition: 100% Silk size S
Category

1990s Balmain

Balmain 1990s Multicolor Tweed Jacket
By Balmain
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Attention, fashion mavens! Feast your eyes on the epitome of vintage chic—the Balmain 1990s Multicolor Tweed Jacket. This is not just a jacket; it's ...
Category

1990s Italian Balmain

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Absence of vulgarity was central to Chanel’s definition of luxury, a view formed during her impoverished early life. Born in 1883 in Saumur, France, as Gabrielle Bonheur Chanel, she was just 12 years old when her mother died and her itinerant father put her in a home for orphaned girls run by a local convent. She learned to sew and, upon moving to Moulins six years later, became a seamstress. She also sang in nightclubs, earning the sobriquet “Coco,” an allusion to a popular song of the time. Beautiful, one of a kind vintage silk dress and jacket for everyday ware as a coktail dress...
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1990s Balmain

Vintage 1960's Christian Dior Peach Pink Silk Skirt Suit UK 6 US 2
By Christian Dior
Located in Cheltenham, GB
Made in the most elegant shade of blushing peach silk, this original 1960's Christian Dior skirt suit, is a rare addition to your vintage collection. The rounded neckline of the jacket is framed by a stand-away panelled collar which draws together along the front left hand side with a matching blush peach coloured button fastening. The simple shoulder line sets off the full length sleeves. The tailored cut of the jacket boasts a double breasted design with four mock button fastenings along the right hand side of the bodice and four button fastenings along the left hand side. The elegant cut, is accented by tailored darts that run upwards along either side of the front of the fitted waistline, which boasts a matching fabric belt, embellished with a stylised bow, which conceals the hook and eye fastening. The lightly flared hemline is accented by gathered pleats from beneath the waistline and along the back of the jacket . The matching skirt boasts a simple waistband and a central hook and eye and metal zip fastening. The line of the skirt is accented by gathered pleats that radiate from beneath the waistline, completing this suit in a truly iconic 1960's Christian Dior Silhouette. The skirt is silk lined Label: Christian Dior - London, Modèle Original, Made in England Measurements of the Jacket Armpit to Armpit: up to 38 inches Shoulder to Hem: 21.5 inches Waist: up to 30 inches Shoulder to End of Sleeve: 19 inches Shoulder to Shoulder: 16 inches Fastenings: 4 external buttons, an internal button along the neckline and an internal press stud along the waist. Measurements of the Skirt Waist: up to 24 inches Waist to Hem: 25 inches Hips: up to 36 inches Fastenings: This skirt fastens along the back with a press stud, a hook and eye and an 8 inch metal zip. Size: UK 6 US 2 Condition: This dress set is in perfect vintage condition. An age mark to the back left hand side of the skirt just above the hemline . A small age mark along the back right hand side of the skirt just above the hemline. A very light water mark along the back right hand side of the skirt near the zip. A small age mark along the right hand side sleeve just above the cuff hemline. Very light water marks along the armpits. Very light surface discolouration along the shoulder seams and side of the collar. These minor details are not apparent when the suit is being worn and only noticeable upon close inspection. Washing instructions: This garment should be dry cleaned or hand washed in cool water. Fabric: Worsted Silk, Silk Lined Vintage garments have been previously worn and lovingly cared for, they may however have a blemish or two. Here at Willow Hilson, we try our very best to note all the details of each garment, although we may sometimes overlook things, which we do apologise for. Please do not expect perfection, unless stated so. Please make sure you check all the measurements of the garment before purchasing...
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Early 2000s European Balmain

Nipon Boutique Black Velvet Halter Dress with Satin Ribbon Size US 6
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Couture Missoni Plaid Knitted Hooded Wool Cape Cloak with Orange Label
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Issey Miyake Suit - 70s
By Issey Miyake
Located in Milano, IT
Issey Miyake Suit is a two-piece suit probably belonging to the spring collection of the late 1970s. the garment consists of a bandeau top with two-button fastening and single crosse...
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20th Century Asian Balmain

A F Vandevorst brown saddle waistcoat with built in corset fall 2000
By A.F. VANDEVORST
Located in COLLINGWOOD, AU
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1990s French Balmain

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Located in Capri, IT
Balmain Light Blue Denim Shirt Light blue denim shirt by Balmain with gold tone buttons Made in italy in size 42
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1990s French Balmain

Balmain Black Gold Sequins Dress
By Balmain
Located in Capri, IT
Balmain Black Gold Sequins Dress size Small total lenght 76 cm
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1990s French Balmain

Balmain Dark Brown Trench
By Balmain
Located in Capri, IT
Balmain Dark Brown Trench Totally made in France Dark Brown trench with belt Composition: Poliestere Size FR 42
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1990s French Balmain

Balmain Black Coat
By Balmain
Located in Capri, IT
Balmain Black coat totally made in France in size 40 Composition: Polyestere
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1990s French Balmain

Balmain Light Blue Denim Shirt
By Balmain
Located in Capri, IT
Balmain Light Blue Denim Shirt Light blue denim shirt by Balmain with gold tone buttons Made in italy in size 42
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1990s French Balmain

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Located in Los Angeles, CA
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1990s French Balmain

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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.
Questions About Balmain
  • 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.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Sizing 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    The 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 28, 2024
    To 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Yes, 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.

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