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
