For Balmain’s latest Pre-Fall 2013 collection, Olivier Rousteing takes inspiration from a photo of Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar fashion editor Diana Vreeland in a red gown in her vibrant living room: excess at its finest and a robust yet edited collection of finds from all over the globe. The influence is palpable in the design’s rich hues, varied textures, and ’70s inspired silhouettes. One thing you will be surprised not to find here? Bare legs. Rousteing packs them away for more covered creations that accentuate the female form in other ways.
Balmain took over the blazer game years ago and the fashion house shows here that it isn’t ready to give up its title. From black and gold diamond print numbers paired with matching skinny trousers to simple black tuxedo jackets for everyday wear, there is something here for everyone, but the message remains the same: structured and menswear-inspired pieces will forever be a part of the Balmain woman’s wardrobe.
Harem pants anyone? I love the silhouette and find them not only comfortable, but fashion-forward. Rousteing suggests you invest in a few pairs for the season in black, stripes, metallics, and more.
There isn’t much that is presented solely for red carpet wear, but the brand repeats the embellished turtleneck mini dresses that were so popular for Fall 2012. Let’s be honest: they look more like tops here when paired with skinny trousers and leggings. With a few inches added or in a larger size, the fashion house’s aficionados like Zoe Saldana and LaLa Anthony will definitely be able to make them work for a movie premiere or cocktail party.
What do you think?
Images: Style.com
January 21, 2013 9:36 pm
I love this!! Those dresses are hot!
January 21, 2013 9:57 pm
meh
January 21, 2013 10:12 pm
Some things look nice but the other stuff looks like Holiday outfits.
January 21, 2013 11:18 pm
Was this inspired by Madonna 80′s styling
January 21, 2013 11:42 pm
I love it!!!
January 22, 2013 3:56 am
Love it!
January 22, 2013 4:00 am
Those blazers, the dresses, the pants, omg I can’t. I just love everything about this line… even the accessories lol.
January 22, 2013 4:17 am
LOVE it! :D
January 22, 2013 4:27 am
I haven’t been this speechless about a collection in a LONG time.
This is perfection.
January 22, 2013 8:48 am
It seems to be a little Japanese Samurai inspired… I actually really love it! The jackets are stunning!
January 22, 2013 11:09 am
Nothing groundbreaking for BALMAIN! I mean the collection has not evolved since 2010.
January 22, 2013 11:14 am
I’m getting too much of a 80′s vibe and not in good way. Only a few pieces stand out as current and fresh. I do however, love the fringe earrings.
January 22, 2013 11:15 am
Balmain never disappoints me! Love!!
January 22, 2013 11:39 am
Are those suede boots going all the way up the the girls kit-kat?
January 22, 2013 12:52 pm
I didn’t do hamer pants the 1st or 2nd time around and Im not doing them now. Some of the, “If Michael Jackson were a woman” printed jackets I love….but not so much the big boxy ones. I do like the accesories too.
January 22, 2013 1:40 pm
This collection is quite boring and the prints? Yuck!
January 22, 2013 4:06 pm
now this collection right here is sheer PERFECTION!
January 22, 2013 7:44 pm
Disappointing. Too 80′s for me
January 23, 2013 12:39 am
OMG. I. AM. IN. LOVE. Can I have all these pieces!
January 23, 2013 2:40 pm
cant wait for Zara to knock this off!
January 25, 2013 11:50 pm
LOVE Balmain! I would love to see a zippered closure on a couple of those blazers though…Sporty/Edgy.