Pierre Balmain satin duchess gown, 1956
Balmain advertisement starring Daria Werbowy
Kristin Davis in vintage Balmain
Balmain Fall 2010 Ready to Wear Collection
Founded by Pierre Balmain, the French fashion house of Balmain has long been known for its classic couture and dazzling designs, and was endorsed by glamourous stars such as Ava Gardner and Brigitte Bardot. The house, once led by Erik Mortensen and Oscar de la Renta, is now headed by Christophe Decarnin and thanks to his forward-thinking, edgy designs, Balmain has again become popular among the fashion set.