Runway Looks for Less: Balmain Spring 2012 RTW
Balmain Spring 2012 RTW | ELLE
According to Vogue, Balmain‘s Spring 2012 looks were inspired by “Las Vegas, cowboys, and matadors” and as crazy as it sounds, all of those elements blended together perfectly to create an amazing spring collection.
This was designer Oliver Rousteing’s first collection for the Parisian-based fashion house and he expertly juxtaposed the label’s signature edgy pieces with Western elements — like chambray, fringe and oversized belt buckles — to create ensembles with a unique cowboy-meet-rocker vibe.
Want that runway-ready look on a college girl’s budget? Just keep reading to see our three budget-friendly interpretations of looks from Balmain Spring 2012:
1. Golden Girl
Photo: ELLE
That rock ‘n’ roll cowboy vibe is exemplified in this look, which features a rugged chambray shirt paired with a glitzy gold lamé skirt. The two contrasting fabrics look unexpectedly chic together, creating an ensemble that is both glamorous and low-key.
Get the Look:
Product Info: Bracelet- Wet Seal, Top- Express, Earrings- Kate Spade, Shoes- ASOS, Skirt- ModCloth, Belt- Anthropologie
For this look, start by pairing a light wash button-up chambray shirt with a metallic gold mini. Some not-so-basic black peep-toe pumps dress the look up for nighttime, while a braided belt adds interest. Complete this ensemble by accessorizing with an intricate cuff bracelet and matching black stone stud earrings.
2. Edged Out Embellishments
Photo: ELLE
Balmain’s spring collection was filled with pieces covered in opulent embellishments, just like the little number pictured here. The intricate black and white beadwork makes this dress a showstopping piece without being at all over-the-top or gaudy.
Get the Look:
Product Info: Rhinestone Ring- Forever 21, Dress- ASOS, Bag- Aldo, Cross Ring- Nasty Gal, Shoes- Charlotte Russe
This LBD from ASOS is fantastic — the similar length, coloring and geometric embellishments give us the same look as the Balmain dress for just a fraction of the price. Pair the dress with statement-making caged wedges and a sleek coral clutch, which adds a bold pop of color. Since the dress is so embellished, the only pieces of jewelry you need are a few unique rings, like the rhinestone-encrusted and double-finger rings pictured above.
3. Short Story
Photo: ELLE
High-waisted shorts are all the rage for spring and this look from Balmain is a great example of how to wear the trend. These embellished shorts make a big statement and by pairing them with an elegant black top and matching shoes, you allow the shorts to become the focus of the look.
Get the Look:
Product Info: Top- Victoria’s Secret, Bracelet- Stella & Dot, Necklace- House of Harlow, Shorts- Forever 21, Moccasins- Minnetonka
For a similar look with a casual twist, pair some printed high-waisted shorts with a simple black tee. Comfy moccasins make this outfit daytime-appropriate, while a medallion necklace mimics the embellishments found on the top of the original look from Balmain. For the finishing touch, add a matching wraparound leather bracelet for a stylish and cute summer outfit.
Your thoughts?
What do you think of this collection? Are you a fan of Balmain? Which look is your favorite? Would you wear any of these outfits? Which designers would you like to see featured here next? Remember to leave a comment below and let me know what you think!
 |
Posted on on May 2, 2012 / Filed Under: Shopping / Tags: Balmain, Budget Fashion, Chambray, Designers, Embellishment, Metallics, Runway Looks for Less, Spring 2012 RTW
Like this post?
Comment Rules: CF is a positive place and our comments section is no different. Constructive criticism is fine, but if you're rude, we'll delete your comment. Please use your PERSONAL name or initials and not your business name and do not put your website in the comment text, as both come off like spam. For more info, see our 
BW Polo
I love chambray shirts and it’s nice to see someone adding them into their product lines again because the they haven’t been popular for so long.
Elyse
Lovely! Balmain is one of my favorite design houses, and Oliver Rousteing has definitely risen to the occasion. This line is beautiful!!! And great tips to make it more wearable :D
Rose
#3 is my fave! It’ll definately make my legs look longer(: which I love…
Asilia
Honestly, I like your looks better than the Balmain ones. Chambray shirts are great, especially for layering.
C
This collection is awsome. Love the last look! Great post!
Alli
I would probably only wear the second of the three looks but only the look you came up with, not the outfit by the designer. This collection is just not my style.
Alyssa Nicole
I adore the looks for “Golden Girl” and “Short Story”, very lovely, I could also see this collection transitioning into fall…can you?
Melanie
I absolutely LOVE the third outfit! Those shorts are fabulous and with the black top are perfect for a summer day outside AND for a night out.
Marissa
I’m not a big fan of this collection, but I think you did a great job putting together looks for less.
I like the first look the most, it doesn’t look over-the-top trendy.
tse
balmain is one of my favourite brands :)
love this post!
julia
I breathed such a sigh of relief after viewing this collection, as I’ve felt Balmain hasn’t been relevant since the strong shoulders of 2009. And this collection is certainly in keeping with what I’ve read in several trend consultantcy reports for the season as well.
aish
i love the idea of a chambray/denim shirt with a metallic/shiny skirt…..i’v tried the look myself and love it
i do like the second look too….its simple and makes a statement
Essy
Balmain never ceases to amaze me or make sure I know who the designer is. So distinct especially those shoulders.
Aprilette
Balmain’s sense of fashion is both eccentric and sexy, a hard combination for someone who lacks the fashion skills. Yet Balmain’s style is always alluring and seductive to any woman. Great post!
Shmee
This is one of the best “Looks for Less” features you’ve done. Especially since Balmain is one of the more difficult designers to emulate.
laura
Those looks are lovely !
aleks
Love these, but this collection is old news.