Fashion
Balmain for the New Punk World
Story by Kristen Bateman / Photography by Sonny Vandevelde
01 March 2019
Balmain put out a fall 2019 collection that aggressively addressed contrasts. Color, shape, textures, fabrics — all that was presented had an interesting opposing dynamic of sorts. A sort of punk attitude was imbued within the collection; what with all those studs, black leather and the fact that Olivier Rousteing told critics his inspiration had a lot to do with troublemakers. Here's everything else you need to know about the show.
Studs
Studs — something we haven't seen much of this season — were everywhere. Tough heavy metal silver studs covered leather jackets, shoes, bags, dresses and feminine trousers.
Black and White
A classic color combo permeated the collection. Black and white patterns and prints as well as more simple options like a white dress styled with black gloves and vice versa, were among the most wearable pieces in the collection.
Light Wash Denim
Under Rousteing's creative vision, light wash denim is back for fall. The designer presented the staple, usually reserved for warmer months, as reformed Canadian tuxedos, girly blouses with bows and baggy, '80s-inspired jeans.
Tough Pastels
A surprise burst of color unexpectedly came midway through the collection. Lilac and sea foam green structural blazers with shoulder pads and tight pants were toughened up with, you guessed it: studs.
Sheer Panels
Sheer pieces of fabric served as interconnected panels that revealed hints (or, rather large amounts, of skin). Some sweaters and jackets were totally transparent adding to the bad girl attitude Rousteing referenced. These pieces were exactly the kinds of things we could see Rihanna, known friend of Rousteing, wearing.
Photography: Sonny Vandevelde