Let's go back in time
Pre-Fall
2023
Oliver Rousteing's 'New-tro' Resurgence
13 years into his position as creative director of Balmain,
Oliver Rousteing has created some of the biggest moments in
fashion pop culture. For this collection, the House of Balmain
was inspired by some of Monsieur Balmain’s strongest designs
from the sixties and seventies. The designs are a conversation
along two main lines. The first a rousing recollection of
Rousteing’s own history with the brand; the second - that of
Pierre Balmain, its’ founder.
With calls to the sixties and seventies, the collections
sees sculptural menswear and lavishly decorated womenswear along
with the platforms and flares most notorious of the decade, and
the time in which the house founder began to wind down his
designed output.
PATTERNS • PATTERNS • PATTERNS • PATTERNS • PATTERNS • PATTERNS • PATTERNS • PATTERNS •
PATTERNS • PATTERNS • PATTERNS • PATTERNS • PATTERNS • PATTERNS • PATTERNS • PATTERNS •
The Labyrinth
The labyrinth pattern is a mesmerising emblem of Balmain's
opulent aesthetic and intricate craftsmanship. Inspired by
ancient mazes and architectural wonders, this distinctive motif
intertwines elegance with a sense of mystery, captivating the
imagination of fashion enthusiasts worldwide. Each winding
pathway and geometric intersection within the labyrinth design
reflects Balmain's commitment to precision and attention to
detail. Whether adorning a haute couture gown or embellishing a
signature handbag, the labyrinth pattern embodies the essence of
luxury, inviting wearers to embark on a journey of sartorial
sophistication and timeless allure.
Menswear Look 67 Model: DJILY KAMARA
Womenswear Look 57 Model: SHUQI LAN
The Houndstooth
The houndstooth pattern, characterised by its tessellating checks,
finds its place in Balmain's collections as a symbol of
sophistication and refinement. Originating from Scottish heritage,
this motif has transcended its traditional roots to become a
hallmark of haute couture. Through meticulous craftsmanship and
innovative styling, Balmain elevates the classic pattern, infusing
it into tailored blazers, chic dresses, and statement accessories.
Whether adorning a structured coat or enhancing a sleek skirt,
Balmain's interpretation of the houndstooth pattern exudes
elegance and allure, embodying the brand's commitment to luxurious
craftsmanship and timeless glamour.
Menswear Look 27 Model: DJILY KAMARA
Womenswear Look 51 Model: SHUQI LAN
The Prince of Wales
Originating from the Scottish Highlands, The Prince of Wales motif
gained widespread popularity in the 1930s when it was favored by
the Duke of Windsor, Edward VIII. The pattern's subtle complexity
and intricate weave evoke a sense of aristocratic charm, appealing
to those who appreciate both heritage and innovation in fashion.
Its enduring presence in the realm of luxury fashion design speaks
to its timeless allure and enduring relevance. Balmain seamlessly
merge the pattern's heritage with the House's contemporary flair,
infusing each piece with a sense of regal elegance, elevating the
designs to the epitome of haute couture.
Menswear Look
36 Model: YERAY ALLGAYER
Menswear Look 47 Model: MAMUOR
MAJENG
FEATURES • FEATURES • FEATURES • FEATURES • FEATURES • FEATURES • FEATURES • FEATURES •
FEATURES • FEATURES • FEATURES • FEATURES • FEATURES • FEATURES • FEATURES • FEATURES •
Brooches
Drawing inspiration from an iconic symbol of opulence, Balmain
utilise brooches as the central theme for these designs, not only
paying homage to classic elegance but also to Founder Pierre
Balmain's love of high-shine brooches and bows.
Womenswear
Look 13 Model: VICTORIA DAROPALE
Womenswear Look 3
Model: POLINA HORSH
Buttons
Digging deeper into the archives, Balmain's iconic Gold buttons
are a vital part of the House's design code, rooted in
decades-long past. These meticulously crafted embellishments exude
luxury and prestige, elevating any garment they adorn.
Womenswear Look 30 Model: SHUQI LAN
Menswear Look 24
Model: MAMUOR MAJENG
Scarves
Another motif of the House's essential design code, Pierre
Balmain’s chic and enduring 1970s silk-scarf silhouettes were the
inspiration for these designs. Printed silk scarves from the ‘70s
became draped tops, loose tunics and wrap skirts. Many of those
silk offerings were covered with variations on the house’s
timeless graphic patterns.
Womenswear Look 70 Model:
VICTORIA DAROPALE
Womenswear Look 71 Model: SHUQI LAN
COLOURS • COLOURS • COLOURS • COLOURS • COLOURS • COLOURS • COLOURS • COLOURS •
COLOURS • COLOURS • COLOURS • COLOURS • COLOURS • COLOURS • COLOURS • COLOURS •
Red
Paired with strict Parisian tailoring, the bold red hue is ideal
for accentuating the sleek and sculpted theatrical essence of
1970s suiting, making it a perfect choice to create statement
pieces.
Womenswear Look 25 Model: POLINA HORSH
Menswear
Look 1 Model: MAMUOR MAJENG
Black
The timeless sophistication of black infuses these designs with an
aura of sleek elegance and sophistication, incorporating the
classic Labyrinth motif which transcends trends and seasons.
Womenswear
Look 69 Model: VICTORIA DAROPALE
Menswear Look 5 Model:
MAMUOR MAJENG
Brown
Brown serves as a quintessential choice to exude warmth,
refinement, and natural beauty. Evoking a sense of groundedness
and authenticity, it forms the perfect pairing with the Prince of
Wales motif from the mid-century archives, solidifying Balmain's
heritage.
Womenswear Look 90 Model: SHUQI LAN
Menswear
Look 52 Model: YERAY ALLGAYER
