While today the house is best known for its celeb-worthy sequined mini-dresses and rock-n’-roll inspired jackets—the handiwork of visionary young designer Christophe Decarnin—when Balmain first began as a French couturier in 1945, it was synonymous with ultra-elegant styles that swathed the likes of European royalty. Now the label’s original boutique at 44 Rue Francoise 1er is returning to its roots with a meticulous redesign.
The freshly-restored flagship features the classic details from when Pierre Balmain first set up shop 65 years ago: From elaborate Parisian ceiling moldings and Versailles parquet flooring to gold-leaf trimmed doors, everything echoes the boutique’s original 18th-century grandeur. Paris-based architect Joseph Dirand oversaw the incredible $2.6 million transformation. The store’s new look will act as a template for all forthcoming Balmain boutiques and shop-in-shops.
The store was closed for renovations last November, before finally opening its doors again on Monday with a cocktail party that, fittingly, coincided with the beginning of Paris couture week.
Visit www.balmain.com.
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