My review of the Balmain- H&M collaboration

The 5th of November is the most hotly anticipated day on the fashion calendar as the French couture meets urban chic collaboration will finally give shape to a collection of 25 pieces designed by Olivier Rousteing, artistic director of Balmain.

Olivier Rousteing has created a collection that is flashy and glitzy, in keeping with the 80s Dynasty-bling vibe of his main collection – the mix of couture spirit and streetwear attitude being part of the brand’s appeal. What is striking is that all the looks are identical to those of his main collection. Indeed, he recreated all of his signature looks, with lower retail prices. The main difference between the runway and the mass market fabrication lies undeniably in the quality of the fabrics, but this cannot be seen though the lookbook pictures. Some pieces can be traced directly to their runway antecedents (the “pearl”-beaded jackets reference the fall 2012 collection; the tightly woven dresses, fall 2014; the emerald sequin looks and draped trousers, fall 2013)

Olivier has paid close attention to the details, so much so that accessories are as strong as the clothing. Predictably enough, many of the pieces are embellished with pearls, rope and embroidery. Jackets are structured with shoulder pads and metallic belts. Sparkles and golden buttons loom large throughout the whole collection.