*SS17; Major Moment | Balmain - Citizen of the Planet

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*SS17; Major Moment | Balmain

*Disclaimer: LOVE this collection. Lots of pictures ahead.

Olivier Rousteing has been a force to reckon with in the fashion industry over the past few years.

It is definitely not easy to balance one’s creative vision with something desirable and sellable.

But as one of the younger creative directors (Rousteing is 31) out there – and probably the youngest in charge of such a large house – he has really embraced the digital age we are in.

Aligning himself, and the label, with social media stars and socialites of the generation, he has really pushed the brand to the forefront of the public eye.

*Also, that collaboration with H&M last year didn’t hurt.

So, it is no wonder that the label is growing – and considerably might I add.

With a new (major) owner as of June this year, the house has already seen growth, increasing the number of looks in the show from 60 to 80 – most of which I have featured here.

*hides face*

To be honest, this is one of my favorite Balmain collections in recent years. Not to say that Rousteing has not been consistent – he has, but this showing seems very well conceived and there is a lot of look to choose from.

Balmain has always been an excessive brand.

In fact, Vogue.com aptly describes this season as “a different kind of excessive.”

While pearlized, crystalized and heavily embroidered pieces have become staples of the brand, surprisingly, they do not show up here.

However, we still see ~~sexy~~ very sexy, body conscious dresses and brights emerge from a semi-jungle, semi-desert palette. (Guess we know where the Balmain Army is going for Spring-Summer.)

Cutouts in every way imaginable.

Underboob. Overboob. Sideboob.

And slits in every place possible.

Rousteing isn’t scared of skin.

And although this may not be the most luxe of the Parisian collections, there is still a sophistication, but probably more intended – a youth and ease about this collection, that most women would clamor to.