Mid-century furniture by Pierre Balmain (France)

Pierre Balmain was a French fashion designer who founded the leading post-war fashion house Balmain. Known for sophistication and elegance, he described the art of dressmaking as "the architecture of movement".

Balmain was born in Saint-Jean-de-Maurienne, France, in 1914. He studied architecture at the École nationale supérieure des Beaux-Arts in Paris, but he soon realized that his true passion was fashion. In 1934, he began working as an apprentice for the couturier Robert Piquet. In 1938, he moved to London to work for Edward Molyneux.

After the outbreak of World War II, Balmain returned to France and served in the French air force. After the war, he opened his own couture house in Paris in 1945. His first collection was an immediate success, and he quickly became one of the most sought-after designers in the world.

Balmain's designs were known for their elegant more... lines, luxurious fabrics, and feminine silhouettes. He was particularly fond of using bias-cut fabrics, which allowed for a great deal of movement. His designs were also known for their attention to detail, with intricate embroidery and beadwork.

Balmain's clients included some of the most famous women in the world, such as the Duchess of Windsor, the Queen of Belgium, and Marlene Dietrich. He also designed costumes for many Hollywood movies, including "Gigi" and "The Roman Spring of Mrs. Stone".

Balmain remained active in fashion until his death in 1982. He was a true master of his craft, and his designs continue to inspire designers today. less...