Balmain

Pierre Balmain's fashion house in Paris, known for elegant eveningwear in the 1950s and later for strong shoulders and embroidery.

Pierre Balmain had worked for Lucien Lelong, at the same time as Christian Dior, before opening his own house on rue François-Ier. His first collection showed narrow waists and full skirts, in the same spirit as the New Look two years later.

Balmain dressed film stars and royalty and was known for lavish evening gowns with embroidery. Since the founder's death in 1982 the house has been led by a series of creative directors.

Labels reading Pierre Balmain Paris or, later, Balmain Paris.

Couture garments have hand-sewn details and often embroidery in beads and sequins.

• Fashion and accessories