Pierre Balmain S.A. or more popularly known as Balmain was founded in 1945 by Pierre Balmain. It is a French fashion house headquartered in Paris, France. The company produces ready-to-wear clothing, leather goods, shoes, and accessories for women and men. It also has a beauty division that manufactures fragrances, skincare products, and makeup.
Since its inception, Balmain has been associated with luxury and high fashion. It is one of the members of Chambre Syndicale de la Haute Couture, an organization that regulates the haute couture industry in Paris. Balmain is also frequently collaborating with other major brands like Swarovski, L’Oreal, and many more.
That said, can Balmain be considered a luxury brand? Keep on reading to find out.
But is Balmain a luxury brand?
Balmain is definitely a luxury brand. It qualifies to many of the requirments and standards of a luxury brand—its history, exclusivity, craftsmanship, and its hefty price tag. Thus, the brand successfully solidified its branding in the industry. As a result, it is one of the most sought-after brands yet not everyone can afford its pieces.
1. The Brand’s History
Balmain has a long and illustrious history in the fashion industry. It was founded by Pierre Balmain in 1945, just after the Second World War. While others would find the brand younger than other luxury brands, Balmain, on the other hand, was launched at the perfect time.
The fashion industry was booming at that time as people were starting to get back on their feet after the war. And since Balmain was one of the first few brands to be established, it quickly gained popularity and recognition in the industry.
Since then, it has been associated with luxury and high fashion. The brand even became one of the members of Chambre Syndicale de la Haute Couture, an organization that regulates the haute couture industry in Paris.
2. Exclusivity
One of the most important criteria of a luxury brand is exclusivity. And Balmain definitely meets that criterion. The brand produces limited collections each year. Plus, its products are only available in selected boutiques and department stores around the world. If you want to get your hands on a piece from Balmain, you definitely have to be willing to spend a lot of money.
A brand that offers exclusivity is usually associated with a higher price tag. And that’s definitely the case for Balmain. The brand’s products are known for being quite expensive, which makes the brand’s products exclusive for people who have the extra cash to spend.
3. Craftsmanship
Another criterion of a luxury brand is craftsmanship. And Balmain definitely excels in that department. The brand’s clothing, leather goods, shoes, and accessories are all made with the highest quality materials and construction. That’s why the brand’s products are known for being quite durable and long-lasting.
The brand’s products are also known for their intricate designs and detailed craftsmanship. That’s why Balmain’s products are often seen on the red carpet or on the runway. The brand is definitely not afraid to take risks when it comes to design, which is one of the things that makes its products so special. Plus, each piece is made with great attention to detail. It’s no wonder why Balmain’s products come with a hefty price tag.
4. Materials Used
As mentioned earlier, Balmain only uses the finest materials for its products. The brand is known for using finest fabrics like silk, cashmere, and wool. Plus, it also uses high-quality leather to create its products. In addition, it is said that the brand was known for using sumptuous gold and silver embroidery and opulent materials, such as silk taffeta.
Tafetta is a luxurious fabric that is often used for high-end clothing. It has a very smooth surface and is known for being quite durable. That’s why it’s often used for special occasions like weddings and balls.
5. The Price Tag
Of course, one of the most obvious signs that Balmain is a luxury brand is its price tag. The brand’s products are definitely not cheap. In fact, some of its pieces can even cost thousands of dollars. But for many people, the high price tag is definitely worth it because of the excellent craftsmanship and luxurious materials used.
For reference, menswear would cost from $290 to over $9,000, while womenswear cost from $395 to over $10,000. Other than that, footwear, bags, and accessories also come with hefty price tags.
6. Investment And Status Symbol
Another sign that Balmain is a luxury brand is the fact that its products are seen as an investment and status symbol. Many people are willing to spend a lot of money on Balmain because they see it as an investment. That’s because the brand’s products are known to be of excellent quality. They’re also known to be timeless and classic, which means that they can be worn for many years.
Does Balmain Hold Value?
Balmain, generally, holds value for many of its products. Because of the high-quality materials used and the intricate designs, Balmain’s products can be worn for many years. They can also be passed down or be resold. In addition, because of the brand’s image, its products are often seen as a status symbol. That’s why many people are willing to spend a lot of money on Balmain.
For reference, Vestair Collective is an online shopping site for secondhand goods. It does offer Balmain products on its website that could go over $38,000, which are from the most basic Balmain item to its most luxurious one. These products are either not sold anymore from Balmain’s store or are collector’s items.
Frequently Asked Questions
How would you describe Balmain?
Balmain is known for putting attention to even the smallest details of their clothing. According to its website, “expertly quilted leathers, detailed embroideries, intricate weavings, masterful pleating, impressive corsetry and an abundance of delicate stitching,” are what make a Balmain piece.
Who is Balmain’s target market?
The brand has a wide range of products that cater to different markets. It offers ready-to-wear, footwear, bags, and accessories for both men and women. In addition, it also has a children’s line. Thus, its products are specifically catered to the upper-class market who don’t mind spending at least $1,000 per item.
How do you know if Balmain is real?
Here are some tips:
– Check the materials used. Balmain only uses high-quality materials like silk, cashmere, wool, and leather.
– Look at the craftsmanship. Each piece is made with great attention to detail.
– Check the price tag. Balmain’s products are definitely not cheap. In fact, some of its pieces can even cost thousands of dollars.
– Consider the brand’s image. Balmain is seen as a luxurious and high-end brand.
– Buy from Balmain stores or from where the brand is authorized to sell.
