Balmain Twists Elegance for a Bold New Era In Its SS25 Collection

Balmain’s ‘New French Style’

Drawing from eight decades of archival designs, Creative Director Olivier Rousteing explores the iconic ‘New French Style’ established by Pierre Balmain through a modern lens that reflects his decade-long tenure at the helm of the house.

The collection displays a focus on Balmain’s signature elements, such as powerful shoulder silhouettes and angular cuts, while reinventing it with structured tailoring that enhances the body’s form. Olivier’s fascination with embellishments is evident in the pearl patterns and photo-realistic designs, which require weeks of expert craftsmanship to create. The incorporation of tweed and fresh takes on the classic marinière further highlights Balmain’s commitment to quality and style.

The heart of the collection

A standout feature of the presentation is the introduction of the Anthem bag. This new accessory pays homage to the cinched-waist silhouettes of mid-century couture while echoing the confidence of modern Balmain tailoring. Additionally, the collection embraces the brand’s connection to music and the arts with its fusion of designs that have a sense of cultural relevance.

Olivier’s go-to looks over the years in the extensive daywear offerings also play a role in his designs. The collection culminates in minimalist silk sheaths inspired by the Balmain Beauty palette, which defines the diversity and inclusivity of the modern Balmain Army.

With this collection, it’s clear that Balmain continues to evolve while remaining steadfast in its iconic identity.

Dayne Aduna

Associate Editor

Dayne Aduna is an Associate Editor at VMAN Southeast Asia, specializing in fashion, grooming, film, television, and contemporary pop culture. With a strong editorial focus on menswear, his work explores how style intersects with shifting cultural movements across Southeast Asia and beyond.

His expertise spans fashion journalism, celebrity profiling, grooming and skincare trends, fragrance, runway reporting, and cultural commentary, with a particular eye for emerging creatives and youth-driven style.

Dayne has written extensively on fashion houses, seasonal trends, designer collections, and the evolving image of the modern Southeast Asian man, bringing both editorial depth and cultural relevance to his coverage.

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