Balmain, Pierre, 1914-1982 (1914-1982)
Dates
- Existence: 1914-1982
Biography
After working for several years alongside Christian Dior as co-designers for the house of Lucien Lelong, Pierre Balmain (1914-1982) founded his eponymously named fashion house in 1945. The House of Balmain quickly became a leader in the post-war couture world, dressing royalty and actresses including Marlene Dietrich, Katharine Hepburn, Brigitte Bardot, and Sophia Loren. Balmain remained at the helm of his house right up until his death at age 68 in 1982 and was subsequently succeeded by his long-time assistant designer Eric Mortensen.
Found in 25 Collections and/or Records:
Pierre Simon sketch collection, 1950-1975
This collection hold sketches by three fashion designers collected by Pierre Simon. The bulk (248) of the drawings are by Pierre Balmain (198 b/w and watercolor and 49 b/w pencil sketches). The remaining two sketches include 1 drawing each by Christian Dior and Elsa Schiaparelli.
September 21-22, 1996, 1996
This folder contains a column on coats and color photos of ensembles Oscar de la Renta for Balmain, Salvatore Ferragamo and black and white photocopies of photos of ensembles by Linda Allard for Ellen Tracy and Valentino.
Sketches, 1960-1965, 1960-1965
34 black & white and color sketches.
Sketches, circa 1950-1965, 1950-1965
18 black & white and color sketches, one with Balmain imprint
Sketches identified as "Boutique Balmain," early 1960s, 1960-1965
10 sketches all with Balmain's imprint