Balmania

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"Dressmaking is the architecture of movement" - Pierre Balmain

Born May 18 1914, Pierre Balmain was made to be a fashion designer; his father was a drapery salesmen and his mother and sister both worked in a quaint fashion boutique in Paris.

Pierre attended Ecole des Beaux Art, but did not finish, instead he went on to design with Edward Molyneux from 1934-1939.
In 1945, Pierre opened his own fashion house, joined by Lucien Lelong. The House showcased many of Balmain's talents. Pierre is known for his bell-shaped skirts, and high waist garments, his look is always chic with a hint of romantic elegance.

In 1951, Pierre decided to expand his empire. He launched a store in the U.S, featuring only 'ready-to-wear' collections. His talent as a dress maker allowed him to create exceptionally well tailored suites as well as evening gowns in the same slender and elegant fashion.

From 1940-1950, Pierre Balmain has on of the worlds most successful perfume lines.
His first perfume fostered his companies phone number; Elysées 64-83
Jolie Madame - 1953
I voire - 1979
Eau d'Amazonie - 2006

In 1960, Pierre Balmain created a costume for Sophia Loren in The Millionairess. 1964 he designed for Josephine Baker. In 1980 he won a 'Tony Award' for Best Costume Design, and the 'Drama Desk Award' for Outstanding Costume Designe for Happy New Year. In total he designed for 16 films and an on-screen wardrobe for actresses Vivienne Leigh and Mae West.

Pierre Balmain's vintage dresses are sought after by some of the most socially prominent women of the world. His gowns have be worn by Kate Moss, Angelina Jolie, Penelope Cruze, Tatianna Sorokko, and Kirstin Davis, just to name a few.

On April 26 2011, Oliver Rousteing was appointed head designer for Balmain's men and women's ready-to-wear collections. Before Oliver joined Balmain in 2009, he worked for noted designer Roberto Cavalli where he designed for the women's ready-to-wear collection. Now designing for Balmain, Oliver has taken the label to a knew height.