Christophe Decarnin headed Balmain from 2005 as a designer and was named the Creative Director for the brand shortly after. He remained there until 2011. He was largely responsible for revitalizing the couture house, turning the label into his own rick-chic vision, and bringing in a much needed younger clientele. This tunic is a runway piece shown for Spring 2008. It's twin was worn as a tunic for Look 31 in the show.
The tunic is pure Decarnin - it has the unexpected rock chic feel to it and you can easily see its influence with what we are now seeing on the runways. Every square inch of the piece is finished with little silver sequins. I love that they are not your typical round sequins either. Each is a bit of an abstract shape and they have been applied to the silk organza underneath with silver metal thread that is top stitched over them. This creates its own secondary texture and gives the sequins a more interesting effect. It is also a little extra special because it can potentially play double duty. It can absolutely be worn as a tunic but if you are brave and don't mind showing off a mile of leg it is probably just long enough to be worn as a micro mini depending on how it sits on you. Especially with the addition of a pair of tights underneath. The neckline is scooped and the shoulders are unstructured so that is sits loose and easy on the body. The sleeves are long and the body is cut to skim over the body in an easy, relaxed way. The sequins are a brilliant silver in person the way they shine and shimmer in the light is far better then how it photoed. It weighs almost nothing and it is a piece that perfectly sums up Decarnin's tenure at the brand. Excellent condition
The sequins are directly applied to a white silk organza and it slips on to wear with no closures. Tagged a 36
Sleeves: 19"
Slightly dropped shoulders: 15.5"
Bust: 17" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 17" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 18.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 28" from shoulder to hem
Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-SML
Item# DD3333
Reference Photos: Spring 2008 Balmain Runway Collection, Look 31. Model: Kim Noorda.
This garment has been professionally cleaned, pressed and is odor free. Thoroughly checked over before shipping, it will be ready to wear upon arrival.